Avoid being a yoga snob. All styles of yoga are great. There is no one style for everyone. Experience as many styles as you can and don’t dis the styles you don’t like.
Seek out groups of people to share readings, philosophies, and discussions with. Learning cannot happen in a vacuum. One needs a circle or community (sangha) to learn with.
Namaste
new post
There Is No Perfect Yoga Body—Yoga Is Perfect For Every Body by Diana Zelfoher
We have all read, heard, seen and felt the multitude of benefits resulting from physical activity. Whether you already have a gym membership, or walk, surf and play sports to get your fix, the intention of this simple note is to help shape things into a different perspective for those of you who might have already proclaimed, “Yoga is not for me.”
Unlike any other sport, yoga is a field where everyone is a winner—going in and coming out. Because winning is not about getting a medal for bending into a pretzel, or who does the best asana [pose], but about learning to do the best asana for your body in each moment. Every day we wake, we receive a new body.
You also might have already heard that our breathing affects the mind, our thoughts affect the immune system, what we eat affects our mood, and physical activity affects emotions, and so on and so forth. But did you know that yoga also holds a reputation for helping bring mood, energy, and metabolism into a more satisfactory balance? Understand though, that balance is not a fixed place at which you arrive, but a constant adjustment process to the circumstances of each moment.
The ability to expand one’s attention to all areas of the body while simultaneously directing focus to specific parts improves powers of mind. Developing mental awareness, mental clarity, and insight are not only at the heart of yoga, but cultivating this inner focus will make our physical practices far more interesting, engaging, and effective. Yogis practice to learn and grow, not to win and defeat. Yoga is the art of balancing attaining with attuning.
“Yoga is not a goal. It is a lifelong process of living and learning
that nurtures our being and that enriches the quality of our days.”
Yoga does not take time—it gives time. If you ever question your progress in terms of improving strength, flexibility or endurance, start thinking of it from the long view perspective—maintenance. Most people would be delighted if they could be in the physical condition they are in today twenty years from now. It’s important to recognize that asanas are only tools, and their purpose is to serve our body, mind and spirit. We need to practice so that, looking back years from now, we’ll be content with ourselves.
Advancing our practice implies refining our ability to see and listen to our body on deeper and subtler levels. Refining this internal perception is more important than merely attaining more exotic postures. Next time you set foot on a mat, keep in mind that your practice is for you—for your growth, development and well-being. Even staying in the same place is a great attainment! And for those of you who don’t consider yoga a workout, I mean that literally and figuratively speaking
I encourage you to stay open-minded—forever endeavor™. Enjoy each moment to its fullest, and move from an inner place of being, rather than from an outer place of doing
We have all read, heard, seen and felt the multitude of benefits resulting from physical activity. Whether you already have a gym membership, or walk, surf and play sports to get your fix, the intention of this simple note is to help shape things into a different perspective for those of you who might have already proclaimed, “Yoga is not for me.”
Unlike any other sport, yoga is a field where everyone is a winner—going in and coming out. Because winning is not about getting a medal for bending into a pretzel, or who does the best asana [pose], but about learning to do the best asana for your body in each moment. Every day we wake, we receive a new body.
You also might have already heard that our breathing affects the mind, our thoughts affect the immune system, what we eat affects our mood, and physical activity affects emotions, and so on and so forth. But did you know that yoga also holds a reputation for helping bring mood, energy, and metabolism into a more satisfactory balance? Understand though, that balance is not a fixed place at which you arrive, but a constant adjustment process to the circumstances of each moment.
The ability to expand one’s attention to all areas of the body while simultaneously directing focus to specific parts improves powers of mind. Developing mental awareness, mental clarity, and insight are not only at the heart of yoga, but cultivating this inner focus will make our physical practices far more interesting, engaging, and effective. Yogis practice to learn and grow, not to win and defeat. Yoga is the art of balancing attaining with attuning.
“Yoga is not a goal. It is a lifelong process of living and learning
that nurtures our being and that enriches the quality of our days.”
Yoga does not take time—it gives time. If you ever question your progress in terms of improving strength, flexibility or endurance, start thinking of it from the long view perspective—maintenance. Most people would be delighted if they could be in the physical condition they are in today twenty years from now. It’s important to recognize that asanas are only tools, and their purpose is to serve our body, mind and spirit. We need to practice so that, looking back years from now, we’ll be content with ourselves.
Advancing our practice implies refining our ability to see and listen to our body on deeper and subtler levels. Refining this internal perception is more important than merely attaining more exotic postures. Next time you set foot on a mat, keep in mind that your practice is for you—for your growth, development and well-being. Even staying in the same place is a great attainment! And for those of you who don’t consider yoga a workout, I mean that literally and figuratively speaking
I encourage you to stay open-minded—forever endeavor™. Enjoy each moment to its fullest, and move from an inner place of being, rather than from an outer place of doing
A blog entry from Seth Godin
Who judges your work?
Here's the mistake we make in high school:
We let anyone, just anyone, judge our work (and by extension, judge us.)
Sue, the airheaded but long-legged girl in Spanish class gets the right to judge our appearance.
Bill, the bitter former-poet English teacher gets the power to tell us if we're good at writing.
And on and on.
The cheerleaders are deputized as the Supreme Court of social popularity, and the gym teacher forever has dibs on whether or not we're macho enough to make it in the world. These are patterns we sign up for, and they last forever (or until we tell them to go away).
In high school, some people learn to ship, they learn to do work that matters and most of all, they learn to ignore the critics they can never possibly please. The ability to choose who judges your work--the people who will make it better, use it and reward you--is the key building block in becoming an artist in whatever you do.
Here's the mistake we make in high school:
We let anyone, just anyone, judge our work (and by extension, judge us.)
Sue, the airheaded but long-legged girl in Spanish class gets the right to judge our appearance.
Bill, the bitter former-poet English teacher gets the power to tell us if we're good at writing.
And on and on.
The cheerleaders are deputized as the Supreme Court of social popularity, and the gym teacher forever has dibs on whether or not we're macho enough to make it in the world. These are patterns we sign up for, and they last forever (or until we tell them to go away).
In high school, some people learn to ship, they learn to do work that matters and most of all, they learn to ignore the critics they can never possibly please. The ability to choose who judges your work--the people who will make it better, use it and reward you--is the key building block in becoming an artist in whatever you do.
OneLoveYogaSD.com
I know I have been slacking on posting blogs lately. Sorry.
I am still practicing my love for yoga. Whether it be in my mind, our backyard, at the local studio or at work. It is a constant companion. Whether or not I choose to write about it is the real question?
Below is a post from a blog I have been following on oneloveyogasd.com...(It seemed
to sum up some things I have been pondering lately)
A Spiritual Choice?
Elizabeth Lesser from the Omega Institute:
"....Everyone one of us longs for something more than just getting up and battling our way through life. We have a sense that there is something more, something more meaningful in our journey. This longing is spirituality. Religions formed to try to answer these questions, who am I, what am I here for, what does this all mean."
We all have that inner tug which draws us to different belief systems that help us on our journey. Those belief systems, whether it's Christianity or Buddhism or Atheism, are our individual choices to make.
In a yoga class, we aren't actively participating in a religious practice. A goal in class may be to unify mind, body and spirit. There are many ways we do this. First by focusing on the breath or a mantra to help quite the mind from all of the mind chatter. Second, we bring ourselves into our bodies by focusing on anatomical alignment or stretching and strengthening areas that are holding a lot of physical and psychological tension. Third, we come to yoga because something in our spirit takes us there. We want something different. We want to feel different. And if you practice on the previous two things, you will be different at the end of a class. This is where your journey comes in. It's your unique choice and expression. It's your spiritual choice.
Often times, students come in and are afraid or refuse to go into savasana because it might contradict their religion. There are a few things to consider. One, the physiological benefits of a savasana for your body is what is most important. By lying down, closing the eyes and simply bringing awareness to the breath, a person is slowing down the flight-or-fight response in the body with their breath. They are also taking away all of the information that the central nervous system tries to process through the eyes. These are putting the body into a relaxed state, which reduces stress, relieves tension and may lower blood pressure. Secondly, taking time to put oneself into a relaxed state, whether it's a nap or it's a savasana, is a great demonstration of self-care. It's been proven that people who take naps are more effective after taking a nap than those who don't. By taking time out for yourself, you become more effective at caring for others. You can call savasana meditation or you can call it focused relaxation, it's your choice with those few moments on the floor
I am still practicing my love for yoga. Whether it be in my mind, our backyard, at the local studio or at work. It is a constant companion. Whether or not I choose to write about it is the real question?
Below is a post from a blog I have been following on oneloveyogasd.com...(It seemed
to sum up some things I have been pondering lately)
A Spiritual Choice?
Elizabeth Lesser from the Omega Institute:
"....Everyone one of us longs for something more than just getting up and battling our way through life. We have a sense that there is something more, something more meaningful in our journey. This longing is spirituality. Religions formed to try to answer these questions, who am I, what am I here for, what does this all mean."
We all have that inner tug which draws us to different belief systems that help us on our journey. Those belief systems, whether it's Christianity or Buddhism or Atheism, are our individual choices to make.
In a yoga class, we aren't actively participating in a religious practice. A goal in class may be to unify mind, body and spirit. There are many ways we do this. First by focusing on the breath or a mantra to help quite the mind from all of the mind chatter. Second, we bring ourselves into our bodies by focusing on anatomical alignment or stretching and strengthening areas that are holding a lot of physical and psychological tension. Third, we come to yoga because something in our spirit takes us there. We want something different. We want to feel different. And if you practice on the previous two things, you will be different at the end of a class. This is where your journey comes in. It's your unique choice and expression. It's your spiritual choice.
Often times, students come in and are afraid or refuse to go into savasana because it might contradict their religion. There are a few things to consider. One, the physiological benefits of a savasana for your body is what is most important. By lying down, closing the eyes and simply bringing awareness to the breath, a person is slowing down the flight-or-fight response in the body with their breath. They are also taking away all of the information that the central nervous system tries to process through the eyes. These are putting the body into a relaxed state, which reduces stress, relieves tension and may lower blood pressure. Secondly, taking time to put oneself into a relaxed state, whether it's a nap or it's a savasana, is a great demonstration of self-care. It's been proven that people who take naps are more effective after taking a nap than those who don't. By taking time out for yourself, you become more effective at caring for others. You can call savasana meditation or you can call it focused relaxation, it's your choice with those few moments on the floor
Yoga Journal daily wisdom
I receive daily emails from Yoga Journal in my inbox. From day to day they vary on topics of discussion. This one really resonated with me today.
It's important to have a daily meditation practice, to have a developing ability to see thoughts clearly, and to reside in our bodily experience. But having deep experiences during meditation is not enough. If we want to know how we're doing in our practice, we have to examine our life. Unless we begin to connect it with the rest of our life, our practice—however strong, calm, or enjoyable—ultimately will not be satisfying.
The real measure of practice is whether, little by little, we can find our edge, that place where we're closed down in fear, and allow ourselves to experience it. This takes courage, but courage isn't about becoming fearless. Courage is the willingness to experience our fears. And as we experience our fears, courage grows. Noticing our edge and trying to meet it also allows us to develop compassion, not just for ourselves but for the whole human drama. Then, with an increasing sense of lightness and curiosity, we can keep moving toward a more open and genuine life.
Namaste
It's important to have a daily meditation practice, to have a developing ability to see thoughts clearly, and to reside in our bodily experience. But having deep experiences during meditation is not enough. If we want to know how we're doing in our practice, we have to examine our life. Unless we begin to connect it with the rest of our life, our practice—however strong, calm, or enjoyable—ultimately will not be satisfying.
The real measure of practice is whether, little by little, we can find our edge, that place where we're closed down in fear, and allow ourselves to experience it. This takes courage, but courage isn't about becoming fearless. Courage is the willingness to experience our fears. And as we experience our fears, courage grows. Noticing our edge and trying to meet it also allows us to develop compassion, not just for ourselves but for the whole human drama. Then, with an increasing sense of lightness and curiosity, we can keep moving toward a more open and genuine life.
Namaste
Saturday 64
I know it has been a week since my last post, but here are a few words for thought.
In yoga it's not about getting somewhere or something or stacking up. It's more about releasing and emptying. As you practice, make space and sit with whatever is. Advancing in yoga is understanding the various layers of yourself and each pose. It's not about pushing through.
Yoga embodies the dual qualities of effort and awareness (ease) no matter how difficult a pose may be. if there isnt even a little bit of a cultivation of ease, back off and become aware, don't let ego get in the way. Trace a sense of emotional relaxation into each pose, no matter how hard, practice releasing tension rather than pushing and treat each class, each pose, with constant curiosity.
Namste
In yoga it's not about getting somewhere or something or stacking up. It's more about releasing and emptying. As you practice, make space and sit with whatever is. Advancing in yoga is understanding the various layers of yourself and each pose. It's not about pushing through.
Yoga embodies the dual qualities of effort and awareness (ease) no matter how difficult a pose may be. if there isnt even a little bit of a cultivation of ease, back off and become aware, don't let ego get in the way. Trace a sense of emotional relaxation into each pose, no matter how hard, practice releasing tension rather than pushing and treat each class, each pose, with constant curiosity.
Namste
58-Sunday
Krishnamurti on Blogging
The Book of Life
If you find it difficult to be aware, then experiment with writing down every thought and feeling that arises throughout the day; write down your reactions of jealousy, envy, vanity, sensuality, the intentions behind your words, and so on.
Spend some time before breakfast in writing them down—which may necessitate going to bed earlier and putting aside some social affair. If you write these things down whenever you can, and in the evening before sleeping look over all that you have written during the day, study and examine it without judgment, without condemnation, you will begin to discover the hidden causes of your thoughts and feelings, desires and words....
Now, the important thing in this is to study with free intelligence what you have written down, and in studying it you will become aware of your own state. In the flame of self-awareness, of self-knowledge, the causes of conflict are discovered and consumed. You should continue to write down your thoughts and feelings, intentions and reactions, not once or twice, but for a considerable number of days until you are able to be aware of them instantly....
Meditation is not only constant self-awareness, but constant abandonment of the self. Out of right thinking there is meditation, from which there comes the tranquility of wisdom; and in that serenity the highest is realized.
Writing down what one thinks and feels, one's desires and reactions, brings about an inward awareness, the cooperation of the unconscious with the conscious, and this in turn leads to integration and understanding.
Namaste
56-57 Inspirational Quotes by Gandi
I want freedom for the full expression of my personality.
-Mahatma Gandhi
The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.
-Mahatma Gandhi
Namaste
-Mahatma Gandhi
The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.
-Mahatma Gandhi
Namaste
53-55
Im losing count of the days. I find myself not wanting to write on my blog after working 9-5 during the day, practicing yoga from 530-7 after work then making dinner or cleaning up from 7-830. By 9pm I'm pooped and ready for bed. The blog is the last thing on my mind lately. I'm still practicing daily with ease but putting it down on paper is so difficult for me. AHHHH. I wish writing came easy to me.
Last night I treated myself to a night off from the studio and decided to watch and practice along to a DVD I have had for sometime now by SEan Corne. I have never watched it for whatever reason and last night seemed like the perfect opportunity. The hubbie and the dog went to run some errands after work and I had the living room all to my lonesome. I highly recommend this DVD to beginners wanting a intro to yoga practice and it's breathing methods. Its called Vinyasa Flow Yoga, Uniting Movement and Breath by Sean Corne.
Namaste
Last night I treated myself to a night off from the studio and decided to watch and practice along to a DVD I have had for sometime now by SEan Corne. I have never watched it for whatever reason and last night seemed like the perfect opportunity. The hubbie and the dog went to run some errands after work and I had the living room all to my lonesome. I highly recommend this DVD to beginners wanting a intro to yoga practice and it's breathing methods. Its called Vinyasa Flow Yoga, Uniting Movement and Breath by Sean Corne.
Namaste
52- A powerful message
A properly executed vinyasa practice can help break the habit of viewing the world around us as a collection of objects or viewing life as a series of distinct events.
It mimics the way nature works-always moving, changing, curvy. Events in nature do not just happen, they unfold, they develop. Thus in our vinyasa practice, we do not "do" standing forward bend, then upward-facing dog, then downward-facing dog in a choppy, static way, but rather we let each asana unfold into the next, the way a seed unfolds into a stem, then into a bud, then into a flower, then back into the earth to nourish the next generation.
When asanas, the sequence of changes, are woven together with breath and conscious intention, we align ourselves with the continuous flow, the undulating rhythm, of the universe.
-Sharon Gannon of the Jivamukti Yoga Center
It mimics the way nature works-always moving, changing, curvy. Events in nature do not just happen, they unfold, they develop. Thus in our vinyasa practice, we do not "do" standing forward bend, then upward-facing dog, then downward-facing dog in a choppy, static way, but rather we let each asana unfold into the next, the way a seed unfolds into a stem, then into a bud, then into a flower, then back into the earth to nourish the next generation.
When asanas, the sequence of changes, are woven together with breath and conscious intention, we align ourselves with the continuous flow, the undulating rhythm, of the universe.
-Sharon Gannon of the Jivamukti Yoga Center
50-51 A weekend of yoga
Saturday morning was spent practicing yoga along side some good friends. On Saturday afternoon my hubbie and I headed up to Encinitas for a work shop presented by Tim Miller at his Ashtanga Yoga Center. The intimate workshop was 3 hours long and it was based on "Remembering Who We Are" and all proceeds went to the Sean O' Shea Foundation here in SD. This foundation is in rememberance of a young man who lost his life at a young age a few years ago in a tragic car accident. There mission is is, "to empower youth through yoga, nutrition and optimistic teachings that help to develop life skills that can enable youth to take responsibility for their life, develop respect for themselves and others, and have confidence in their own potential." seanosheafoundation.org
The workshop was lengthy and we covered a lot of pertinent, insightful information within those few hours from Tim. Below is his email that describes the workshop.
The traditional purpose of the practice of yoga is self-realization--to awaken, recognize and remember our true nature. All of the different methodologies of yoga are intended to facilitate this process. There is something inherent in the human condition that creates a kind of "spiritual amnesia," causing us to forget our essential self. Without some kind of intervention we are trapped in the endless cycle of samsara (conditioned existence), which causes the mind to spin in unceasing, repetitive cycles, creating suffering for others and ourselves. When we are under the spell of samsara we are unable to penetrate the layers of our conditioning to perceive the essential self and experience the grace, peace and joy of yoga (union).
The yoga sutras of Patanjali offer us a map to navigate the path of self-realization. Drawing from his more than 30 years of practice and study of the yoga sutras, Tim will offer insights regarding how the philosophy of Patanjali and the methodology of Ashtanga yoga come together. In this workshop we will explore how the fundamental practices of Ashtanga yoga--ujjayi breathing, vinyasa, bandha and tapas--are designed to take us beyond the surface layers of conditioning into the heart of our true nature.
I am almost positive that Tim offers workshop's like these quite often. I recommend one of his workshops to anyone practicing yoga, wanting to maybe start practicing or just wanting to give back to the community? Meeting Tim for the first time was very cool. His presence as a teacher of yoga was very grounding, compassionate, lighthearted and real.
Shanti
The workshop was lengthy and we covered a lot of pertinent, insightful information within those few hours from Tim. Below is his email that describes the workshop.
The traditional purpose of the practice of yoga is self-realization--to awaken, recognize and remember our true nature. All of the different methodologies of yoga are intended to facilitate this process. There is something inherent in the human condition that creates a kind of "spiritual amnesia," causing us to forget our essential self. Without some kind of intervention we are trapped in the endless cycle of samsara (conditioned existence), which causes the mind to spin in unceasing, repetitive cycles, creating suffering for others and ourselves. When we are under the spell of samsara we are unable to penetrate the layers of our conditioning to perceive the essential self and experience the grace, peace and joy of yoga (union).
The yoga sutras of Patanjali offer us a map to navigate the path of self-realization. Drawing from his more than 30 years of practice and study of the yoga sutras, Tim will offer insights regarding how the philosophy of Patanjali and the methodology of Ashtanga yoga come together. In this workshop we will explore how the fundamental practices of Ashtanga yoga--ujjayi breathing, vinyasa, bandha and tapas--are designed to take us beyond the surface layers of conditioning into the heart of our true nature.
I am almost positive that Tim offers workshop's like these quite often. I recommend one of his workshops to anyone practicing yoga, wanting to maybe start practicing or just wanting to give back to the community? Meeting Tim for the first time was very cool. His presence as a teacher of yoga was very grounding, compassionate, lighthearted and real.
Shanti
48-49 Meditation and Cultivating Compassion
This beautiful meditation helps us see others and ourselves through the eyes of the heart. Take a few deep breaths and rest your hands tenderly on your heart as you softly repeat the following phrases:
May I remain in peace and let go of expectations.
May I acknowledge my anger, fear and sadness without thinking it makes me bad or wrong.
May I offer unconditional attention and care to others, knowing it may be met by indifference or anger.
May I find the inner resources to truly be able to give freely.
May I be filled with compassion and loving kindness for myself and all beings.
Namaste
May I remain in peace and let go of expectations.
May I acknowledge my anger, fear and sadness without thinking it makes me bad or wrong.
May I offer unconditional attention and care to others, knowing it may be met by indifference or anger.
May I find the inner resources to truly be able to give freely.
May I be filled with compassion and loving kindness for myself and all beings.
Namaste
42-47 Practicing at home
This past week has been difficult when it comes to fitting in an hour and a half practice. We have had our fantastic In-Laws in town visiting for my super duper hubbie's 40th Birthday. So I have been sneaking in yoga sessions in our back yard for 20-40 minutes for two days. On some of the other days when I couldn't make it to the yoga studio after work i would indulge myself with some helpful back, hip and hamstring stretches in my bedroom.
This morning I had a follow up visit with my Ayurvedic physician, Dr. Kulreet Chaudry. She has been teaching me so many helpful ayurvedic dietary tips over the past few months for my particular body type/dosha. I have been following her advice on a day to day basis now for a few months and all the herbs have been working like a charm for my digestion, low back and well being in general.
I have been seeing her for the past few months for numerous digestive issues that I have been having over the past 10-12 years. I finally had had enough with western medicine's weak attempts at treating only my signs and symptoms and not revealing the root of my problem. Masking the issues with pills was not going to make my tummy better. So I finally made the executive decision to put my faith in her and Ayurveda (yoga's sister science). So far I have seen such great results that I would recommend her to anyone.
http://vimeo.com/8669004
This morning I had a follow up visit with my Ayurvedic physician, Dr. Kulreet Chaudry. She has been teaching me so many helpful ayurvedic dietary tips over the past few months for my particular body type/dosha. I have been following her advice on a day to day basis now for a few months and all the herbs have been working like a charm for my digestion, low back and well being in general.
I have been seeing her for the past few months for numerous digestive issues that I have been having over the past 10-12 years. I finally had had enough with western medicine's weak attempts at treating only my signs and symptoms and not revealing the root of my problem. Masking the issues with pills was not going to make my tummy better. So I finally made the executive decision to put my faith in her and Ayurveda (yoga's sister science). So far I have seen such great results that I would recommend her to anyone.
http://vimeo.com/8669004
41- Happy Valentine's Day Weekend!!
Valentine's Day is right around the corner!! This past week has flown by.
I finally have found out from my doctor that my MRI was negative. YEAH!! So that tells me that I have a muscle imbalance on the right side of my lower body that is causing all of my back pain?
I WILL figure out how to balance out my right and left side no matter what. How long it will take is the real question? I guess I will just have to practice more patiently, become more aware in my poses while also allowing my body & mind to find the happy gentle spaces in each posture. And those are just a few of the things within each posture that need constant work. I also need to stop obsessing over the injury. I find myself constantly trying to adjust in each posture to find that happy, painless space in my low back/hip area. I know "that space" exists hiding deep beneath my steel rod hamstrings and tight a** hip flexors and extensors. I'm still a bit frustrated as you can tell, but still determined.
Until next time..
Bhakti
I finally have found out from my doctor that my MRI was negative. YEAH!! So that tells me that I have a muscle imbalance on the right side of my lower body that is causing all of my back pain?
I WILL figure out how to balance out my right and left side no matter what. How long it will take is the real question? I guess I will just have to practice more patiently, become more aware in my poses while also allowing my body & mind to find the happy gentle spaces in each posture. And those are just a few of the things within each posture that need constant work. I also need to stop obsessing over the injury. I find myself constantly trying to adjust in each posture to find that happy, painless space in my low back/hip area. I know "that space" exists hiding deep beneath my steel rod hamstrings and tight a** hip flexors and extensors. I'm still a bit frustrated as you can tell, but still determined.
Until next time..
Bhakti
39-40 Practicing Ahimsa on the mat
What does it mean to practice ahimsa (non-violence) on our yoga mats?
For many of us, it means backing off and learning to let the competitive ego go. Have we learned not to compare ourselves to others? A good yoga instructor will always encourage you to listen to your own body, work at your own pace, modify as you need, and keep your judging eyes off your neighbor, who very well might, as they say, be a contortionist.
Learning not to compete with ourselves is a more nuanced and difficult skill. This means not comparing today's practice and experience to yesterday's, not having expectations that we will always be able to match, if not beat, our previous performance. The beauty of yoga and what connects it so closely to the art of meditation is that it allows us to be present with ourselves in each moment. Allowing us to not bring in our memory of yesterday or expectations for tomorrow. This is why it's called a practice.
Namaste
For many of us, it means backing off and learning to let the competitive ego go. Have we learned not to compare ourselves to others? A good yoga instructor will always encourage you to listen to your own body, work at your own pace, modify as you need, and keep your judging eyes off your neighbor, who very well might, as they say, be a contortionist.
Learning not to compete with ourselves is a more nuanced and difficult skill. This means not comparing today's practice and experience to yesterday's, not having expectations that we will always be able to match, if not beat, our previous performance. The beauty of yoga and what connects it so closely to the art of meditation is that it allows us to be present with ourselves in each moment. Allowing us to not bring in our memory of yesterday or expectations for tomorrow. This is why it's called a practice.
Namaste
36-38 Gratitude Reflections
This past weekend was perfect in every way. I even enjoyed the rain! Friday evening and throughout the weekend I thought of things that I am grateful for....
1. My health
2. My loving husband
3. Our dog
4. A loving family
5. Supportive friends
6. Scott Papek (yes you get two shout outs)
7. My job & co-workers
8. Dessert (anything that is sweet)
9. My strength both internally and externally
10. A space to practice yoga
11. A king size bed
12. Having a valentine comes Valentine's day;)
13. Smelling freshness in the air after it rains.
and the list goes on.......
What are you thankful for?
Namaste
1. My health
2. My loving husband
3. Our dog
4. A loving family
5. Supportive friends
6. Scott Papek (yes you get two shout outs)
7. My job & co-workers
8. Dessert (anything that is sweet)
9. My strength both internally and externally
10. A space to practice yoga
11. A king size bed
12. Having a valentine comes Valentine's day;)
13. Smelling freshness in the air after it rains.
and the list goes on.......
What are you thankful for?
Namaste
35- Herbal Healing
A scratchy throat snuck up on me this morning and got worse as the day progressed at work. On my way home I stopped at a local Aromatherapy store that I have been eyeing for a few weeks now. I figured today was the day to check it out and to help find something preventative to keep the evil bugs from invading the rest of my respiratory system. Hoping to somehow soothe and kill,kill, kill the bacteria that had made it's way into my body I purchased (per recommendation) some Echinacea Goldenseal. What is that and what does it do, you might ask? Well I was informed that .....
Echinacea may be taken for acute colds, flus, fevers, and infections. Of most importance is the dosage and frequency. It is most effective when taken every two hours until some symptoms are relieved. The dose is then reduced to three times daily for a week to ensure complete recovery and optimal immune function. A dose is two tablets or capsules (usually around 500-1000 mg of the ground herb), 40 drops of the extract, or 4 to 8 ounces of a strong tea made from the ground root. Often you will feel relief within hours.
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is also effective for infections. It soothes the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract during the congestion and inflammation of colds and flus. Its active component, berberine, has a broad spectrum of antibiotic and immune stimulating activity. Combined with Echinacea, it has a potent immune enhancing and congestion reducing action.
Fingers crossed that this method of prevention works alongside some Ayurvedic remedies???
Namaste and stay healthy
Echinacea may be taken for acute colds, flus, fevers, and infections. Of most importance is the dosage and frequency. It is most effective when taken every two hours until some symptoms are relieved. The dose is then reduced to three times daily for a week to ensure complete recovery and optimal immune function. A dose is two tablets or capsules (usually around 500-1000 mg of the ground herb), 40 drops of the extract, or 4 to 8 ounces of a strong tea made from the ground root. Often you will feel relief within hours.
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is also effective for infections. It soothes the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract during the congestion and inflammation of colds and flus. Its active component, berberine, has a broad spectrum of antibiotic and immune stimulating activity. Combined with Echinacea, it has a potent immune enhancing and congestion reducing action.
Fingers crossed that this method of prevention works alongside some Ayurvedic remedies???
Namaste and stay healthy
34- Practice,practice, practice
Last night I definitely had a fight with myself as to whether or not I was going to go to class versus a home practice? I definitely laid on the floor pondering for a good five minutes while my husband unpacked his car after coming home from work. The thought of getting on my mat was just AHHH!!!! Not NOW!!
Why is that? I love practicing yoga! Once I’m on my mat, I never want to leave. I think that as much as it’s good for me (and it’s very good for me), it’s such a mindful practice that I’m forced to address problems or issues that I’m not always in mood to deal with in that moment – that tight spot in my shoulder. Why is that there? My mind, why is it racing instead of being here now? My breath, where did it go?
But as many times as I’ve felt less-than-thrilled to hit the mat, the number of times I’ve left feeling disgruntled with my practice is few. Yes, sometimes it feels like a chore instead of a beautiful, moving meditation. But that’s ok. I made the effort, and part of being mindful is being aware of those feelings.
Namaste
Why is that? I love practicing yoga! Once I’m on my mat, I never want to leave. I think that as much as it’s good for me (and it’s very good for me), it’s such a mindful practice that I’m forced to address problems or issues that I’m not always in mood to deal with in that moment – that tight spot in my shoulder. Why is that there? My mind, why is it racing instead of being here now? My breath, where did it go?
But as many times as I’ve felt less-than-thrilled to hit the mat, the number of times I’ve left feeling disgruntled with my practice is few. Yes, sometimes it feels like a chore instead of a beautiful, moving meditation. But that’s ok. I made the effort, and part of being mindful is being aware of those feelings.
Namaste
33-Violence vs Non-Violence within the body
After practice tonight I began to think about what to blog about? Since my back aches are still in the forefront of my mind I decided to pick up The Tree of Yoga by B.K.S. Iyengar. As I opened the book nonchalantly and looked at what page and chapter I had randomly come across I noticed it was exactly what I had in mind when I grabbed the book! Iyengar's chapter on Effort, Awareness and Joy! Sweet. What a coincidence:)
Iyengar in his book on page 44 (another well known form of yoga focusing on alignment) speaks of violence that sometimes occurs on one side of the body more so than the other. He attributes this to overworking the cells, muscles and fibers. I have found that in the Ashtanga tradition this is more prominent due to always beginning asanas and salutations with the right side of the body, never the left.
Matthew Sweeney, who I have spoke of before even states in his Chandra Krama "Moon Sequence" that beginning or stepping forward in asanas and salutations with left side of the body first activates the feminine qualities in each of us: the right side represents the masculine and analytical aspect of the body. Hmmmmmmm? I think he is on to something here......He also believes and it has been proven that his "Moon Sequence" can assist with undoing and right-sided aggravation that can occur through the repetition of the traditional Ashtanga practice.
So if your finding yourself having muscle imbalances as you continue to practice, ask yourself.
Why am I getting pain at this moment?
Why do I not get the pain at another moment or with another movement?
What have I to do with this part of my body?
What do I have to do with that part?
How can I get rid of the pain?
Why am I feeling this pressure?
Why is this side painful?
How are the muscles behaving on this side and how are they behaving on the other side?
Per Iyengar's instructions you should continue analyzing, and by analysis you will come to understand. Analysis in action is required in yoga. It is true that in analysis you dissipate energy at first. With time the energy becomes less.
Direction will come, and when you go in the right direction, wisdom begins. When wise action comes, you no longer feel the effort as effort- you feel the effort as joy.- Iyengar
Namaste
Iyengar in his book on page 44 (another well known form of yoga focusing on alignment) speaks of violence that sometimes occurs on one side of the body more so than the other. He attributes this to overworking the cells, muscles and fibers. I have found that in the Ashtanga tradition this is more prominent due to always beginning asanas and salutations with the right side of the body, never the left.
Matthew Sweeney, who I have spoke of before even states in his Chandra Krama "Moon Sequence" that beginning or stepping forward in asanas and salutations with left side of the body first activates the feminine qualities in each of us: the right side represents the masculine and analytical aspect of the body. Hmmmmmmm? I think he is on to something here......He also believes and it has been proven that his "Moon Sequence" can assist with undoing and right-sided aggravation that can occur through the repetition of the traditional Ashtanga practice.
So if your finding yourself having muscle imbalances as you continue to practice, ask yourself.
Why am I getting pain at this moment?
Why do I not get the pain at another moment or with another movement?
What have I to do with this part of my body?
What do I have to do with that part?
How can I get rid of the pain?
Why am I feeling this pressure?
Why is this side painful?
How are the muscles behaving on this side and how are they behaving on the other side?
Per Iyengar's instructions you should continue analyzing, and by analysis you will come to understand. Analysis in action is required in yoga. It is true that in analysis you dissipate energy at first. With time the energy becomes less.
Direction will come, and when you go in the right direction, wisdom begins. When wise action comes, you no longer feel the effort as effort- you feel the effort as joy.- Iyengar
Namaste
32-Muscle imbalances in yoga
I think that I have mentioned previously that I have been practicing yoga for about 4years now. I just began committing myself to the practice and way of life whole heartedly within the past year or so. Since making this commitment to the practice of Yoga I have also noticed that my commitments to other things surrounding my life have come to the forefront of my mind and consciousness. I find myself paying more attention to how my body feels on a day to day basis and honoring it not only during practice but off the mat as well. In doing so I have found that certain muscle imbalances have arisen in my right low back. I would estimate that this has been irritating me and my husband for about 6-9 months now! And I think that might be an under estimated guess at the time frame?
Most people ask how can that happen in yoga? Aren't you supposed to be all limber, dancer like and without pain? Without pain is ideal but I believe that as you begin to move through the asanas you began accessing areas in your body that have never been accessed before? Sometimes bringing about tension and pain. Other times these areas awaken without a problem and you continue going about your day to day life with no issues (lucky's).
I finally scheduled an MRI yesterday to hopefully find out what has been going on? I am really really hoping with fingers crossed that it is a muscle imbalance related to a tight psoas and hamstring muscles on my right side that has been causing the ongoing pain. I have been putting off this MRI for a while now because I was trying to figure it out on my own. But I was allowing my ego to get the best of me and I kept telling myself that I was a young 28 year old and it wasn't anything serious. But I would rather be safe than sorry and get the MRI done sooner than later. So that is what I did yesterday:) Results are pending.....
Like anything else in life I find myself having good days and bad days with my body, mind and spirit on the mat. But 95% of those days end up becoming good days after a few sun salutations and finding the rhythm in my breath. I find that my body is constantly rejuvenating itself within my practice. Sometimes my body decides that today is the day to release toxins that my body has been hoarding for whatever reason? Other days it is time to find muscles that have never been awakened prior to that days practice and the list goes on and on...Everyday on the mat brings something new to my life whether I have chosen in the past to realize it or not?
Utthita Trikonasana/Extended Triangle Pose
Parivrtta Trikonasana/Revolved Triangle Pose
Most people ask how can that happen in yoga? Aren't you supposed to be all limber, dancer like and without pain? Without pain is ideal but I believe that as you begin to move through the asanas you began accessing areas in your body that have never been accessed before? Sometimes bringing about tension and pain. Other times these areas awaken without a problem and you continue going about your day to day life with no issues (lucky's).
I finally scheduled an MRI yesterday to hopefully find out what has been going on? I am really really hoping with fingers crossed that it is a muscle imbalance related to a tight psoas and hamstring muscles on my right side that has been causing the ongoing pain. I have been putting off this MRI for a while now because I was trying to figure it out on my own. But I was allowing my ego to get the best of me and I kept telling myself that I was a young 28 year old and it wasn't anything serious. But I would rather be safe than sorry and get the MRI done sooner than later. So that is what I did yesterday:) Results are pending.....
Like anything else in life I find myself having good days and bad days with my body, mind and spirit on the mat. But 95% of those days end up becoming good days after a few sun salutations and finding the rhythm in my breath. I find that my body is constantly rejuvenating itself within my practice. Sometimes my body decides that today is the day to release toxins that my body has been hoarding for whatever reason? Other days it is time to find muscles that have never been awakened prior to that days practice and the list goes on and on...Everyday on the mat brings something new to my life whether I have chosen in the past to realize it or not?
Utthita Trikonasana/Extended Triangle Pose
Parivrtta Trikonasana/Revolved Triangle Pose
31- Sunday Fun Day
There is just something to be said about spending your Sunday afternoon practicing yoga with fellow yogi's, shopping for new yoga attire (on sale of course), grabbing a bite to eat at the corner bistro and then later in the day deciding to leisurely take your time in the grocery store deciding what scrumptious vegetarian meal to make for dinner?
I would have to say it was a blissful Sunday in San Diego. Any day can be blissful but don't you agree that Sunday's have that laid back attitude about them? I love it:)
I encountered a great new teacher today at a local studio. I didn't feel like practicing alone this afternoon . So I jumped on the World Wide Web and found myself a Vinyasa 2-3 level class within 20 minutes of my house. I checked out the teacher's bio and thought this class would be a great fit for what I was looking to practice this afternoon.
Before class she began by handing out a sheet of paper with the Prayer for Enlightenment mantra we would be saying at the start of class. The handout provided translations for those that weren't familiar with the mantra. It also provided me and maybe others with some clarity to those verses that I have been chanting for some time now but was unsure of there true meaning.
Aum
Sahana Vavatu
Sahanou Bhunaktu
Sahaviryam Karavava Hi
Tejasvina Vadhitamastu
Mavidh Vishava Hi
Aum
Translation
May both of us together be protected.
May both of us together be nourished.
May we work together with great energy.
May our study together be brilliant and effective.
May we not hate or dispute with each other.
Om.
The class was quite challenging but I left there feeling relaxed and ready to conquer the rest of my Sunday afternoon with clarity. Thank you Rebecca for being creative with your teaching approach it was much appreciated. I will continue to work on my jump throughs this week, per Rebecca's recommendation.
Jump throughs from downdog have been something I have been struggling with for a while now, but maybe after this week I will have it conquered? Only time will tell....
Shanti
I would have to say it was a blissful Sunday in San Diego. Any day can be blissful but don't you agree that Sunday's have that laid back attitude about them? I love it:)
I encountered a great new teacher today at a local studio. I didn't feel like practicing alone this afternoon . So I jumped on the World Wide Web and found myself a Vinyasa 2-3 level class within 20 minutes of my house. I checked out the teacher's bio and thought this class would be a great fit for what I was looking to practice this afternoon.
Before class she began by handing out a sheet of paper with the Prayer for Enlightenment mantra we would be saying at the start of class. The handout provided translations for those that weren't familiar with the mantra. It also provided me and maybe others with some clarity to those verses that I have been chanting for some time now but was unsure of there true meaning.
Aum
Sahana Vavatu
Sahanou Bhunaktu
Sahaviryam Karavava Hi
Tejasvina Vadhitamastu
Mavidh Vishava Hi
Aum
Translation
May both of us together be protected.
May both of us together be nourished.
May we work together with great energy.
May our study together be brilliant and effective.
May we not hate or dispute with each other.
Om.
The class was quite challenging but I left there feeling relaxed and ready to conquer the rest of my Sunday afternoon with clarity. Thank you Rebecca for being creative with your teaching approach it was much appreciated. I will continue to work on my jump throughs this week, per Rebecca's recommendation.
Jump throughs from downdog have been something I have been struggling with for a while now, but maybe after this week I will have it conquered? Only time will tell....
Shanti
30- Saturday and feelin' photogenic
Saturday morning began with a peaceful practice followed by a photo shoot in the early afternoon by my talented hubbie http://www.papekphotography.com. He was doing a friend a fav by taking some fun asana pic's. I jumped in a few poses myself to get an idea of where my body is in certain poses?
Warrior II/ Virabhadrasana B
Prepping for Bakasana
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Bakasana, no droopy feathers;)
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Falling out of Pincha Mayurasana!! oops. As a team my hubbie (photographer) and I still happen to make it look graceful. I will continue to work on this one.
One more ......jpg)
Uttana Padasana/ Extended Leg Posture
Namaste, Julie
Warrior II/ Virabhadrasana B
Prepping for Bakasana
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Bakasana, no droopy feathers;)
.jpg)
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Falling out of Pincha Mayurasana!! oops. As a team my hubbie (photographer) and I still happen to make it look graceful. I will continue to work on this one.
One more .....
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Uttana Padasana/ Extended Leg Posture
Namaste, Julie
29- Yoga @ work
Finding time to integrate yoga during, before or after work is sometimes a challenge, but I'm game! I have gone so far at work as to sneak in a tree pose in the elevator. I know soooooo crazy!! Maybe even an uttanasana if my hamstrings and low back are feeling a bit tight. Another is Tadasana, Mountain pose while taking a few deep inhales and exhales. It's really not that daring because I only do this when not one else is in the elevator:) Once in a while the elevator stops a floor to early and an onlooker finds me with hands at hearts center, sometimes coming out of a pose or still in it. I forgot to mention that one of the hospital's I work at is Catholic, so the hands at heart center could always be seen as talking to the man above?
Another added bonus about my employer is that they also offers a Wellness program. It even includes an on site exercise program at each hospital for the employee's ONLY. Sweet huh? Yoga is offered about 2-3 times a week. I have found time to make it to 1 or 2 and when I can't make it I substitute that 1/2 hour to 15 minutes with either a few asanas on the elevator or a breathing exercise outside. This particular Friday I decided to go up to the top floor of the hospital (12th), breath in some fresh air, take in a beautiful panoramic view of San Diego and stretch it out with some yoga poses. It is amazing how a few poses can change your physiological makeup in a matter of a few minutes. These poses always help on a Friday.
What do you do at work to de-stress, become present and bring joy to fellow collegues?
P.S. Please don't tell the "boss lady"!!
Namaste
Another added bonus about my employer is that they also offers a Wellness program. It even includes an on site exercise program at each hospital for the employee's ONLY. Sweet huh? Yoga is offered about 2-3 times a week. I have found time to make it to 1 or 2 and when I can't make it I substitute that 1/2 hour to 15 minutes with either a few asanas on the elevator or a breathing exercise outside. This particular Friday I decided to go up to the top floor of the hospital (12th), breath in some fresh air, take in a beautiful panoramic view of San Diego and stretch it out with some yoga poses. It is amazing how a few poses can change your physiological makeup in a matter of a few minutes. These poses always help on a Friday.
What do you do at work to de-stress, become present and bring joy to fellow collegues?
P.S. Please don't tell the "boss lady"!!
Namaste
28- A Home Practice
A home practice was an executive decision this evening right before I was about to head out the door to the yoga studio. I splayed out my mat in the middle of the living room, pulled up some of my favorite yoga tunes on ITunes and was ready to improvise. 1 hour later I was in yogic bliss. I actually video taped my practice so that I could send it to my mom in Boston, Ma. She actually has never seen me practice yoga since I started 4 years ago. So I thought I would kill two birds with one stone. Guess what happened? Of course my video camera stopped taping after 8 minutes!! On top of that it won't upload to my blog. Oh well. Maybe next time mom:) Bhakti to all.
27- Gayatri Mantra
These are the two mantra's we speak of with one another before and prior to leaving each yoga class at the Haven. I feel as if they bring much peace and tranquility to the room before and after each practice.
Gayatri Mantra
Aum
Aum bhoor bhuwah swaha
tat savitur varenyam
bhargo devasya dheemahi
dhiyo yo naha prachodayat
Aum - Shanti, Shanti, Shanti
Translation
Through the coming, going and the balance of life.
The essential nature which illumes existence
is the adorable one.
May all perceive through subtle intellect,
the brilliance of enlightenment.
Om, peace, peace, peace.
Prayer for Enlightenment
Aum
Sahana Vavatu
Sahanou Bhunaktu
Sahaviryam Karavava Hi
Tejasvina Vadhitamastu
Mavidh Vishava Hi
Aum
Translation
May both of us together be protected.
May both of us together be nourished.
May we work together with great energy.
May our study together be brilliant and effective.
May we not hate or dispute with each other.
Om.
Namaste, Julie
Gayatri Mantra
Aum
Aum bhoor bhuwah swaha
tat savitur varenyam
bhargo devasya dheemahi
dhiyo yo naha prachodayat
Aum - Shanti, Shanti, Shanti
Translation
Through the coming, going and the balance of life.
The essential nature which illumes existence
is the adorable one.
May all perceive through subtle intellect,
the brilliance of enlightenment.
Om, peace, peace, peace.
Prayer for Enlightenment
Aum
Sahana Vavatu
Sahanou Bhunaktu
Sahaviryam Karavava Hi
Tejasvina Vadhitamastu
Mavidh Vishava Hi
Aum
Translation
May both of us together be protected.
May both of us together be nourished.
May we work together with great energy.
May our study together be brilliant and effective.
May we not hate or dispute with each other.
Om.
Namaste, Julie
26- Low back stretches & Binding
Tonight's class started off with my teacher wanting to concentrate on binding in certain poses. She voiced to us her honest opinion that she felt that most of us needed a little extra time working on binding in certain poses. Out came the straps and blocks. We knew she meant business.
Her poses in mind were Tittibhasana B (standing & walking), Tittibhasana D "firefly", Kurmasana "Tortoise" into Supta Kurmasana "Sleeping tortoise", Ardha Matsyendrasana "Half Lord of the Fishes Posture" in no exact order. All of them using binds only if your body would allow it. If not we had the help of straps and her assistance when needed to help guide us in the right direction. Allowing us as students to feel our bodies in motion with the guidance of an experienced teacher adjusting us into proper alignment when needed.
These are just a few of the key postures we worked on this evening but the opening affect that I FINALLY had in my low back and hammies was incredible. Hallelujah! Once again thank goodness for teachers that sometimes know what my body needs more than I do. Susan (my teacher) that I have been working with since day 1 about 4 years ago is always willing to put that confidence combined with abandon, stretching and awareness in my poses that I sometimes lack. Her experience and adjustment have gotten me to where I am today.
Believe me there is still plenty that needs to be worked on but just to see the light at the end of the tunnel and know that there is maybe a releasing of some kind on the nagging right side of my low back/hamstring area is a "god sent". Go figure this low back thing has been really peeving me for a while now, probably about a year to be exact. Today about 330pm I called my doc to schedule an MRI of my lumbar/thoracic spine for the 1st of Feb. I've been wanting to make this MRI appt for some time now for piece of mind. Also to make sure that there isn't more going on back there besides a good pulling on my psoas, sciatic nerve and the list goes on..... By 700pm this evening, half way through our class my back was feeling as if it was giving me some relief for the first time in a long time.
What the heck! Go figure??
Namaste
Her poses in mind were Tittibhasana B (standing & walking), Tittibhasana D "firefly", Kurmasana "Tortoise" into Supta Kurmasana "Sleeping tortoise", Ardha Matsyendrasana "Half Lord of the Fishes Posture" in no exact order. All of them using binds only if your body would allow it. If not we had the help of straps and her assistance when needed to help guide us in the right direction. Allowing us as students to feel our bodies in motion with the guidance of an experienced teacher adjusting us into proper alignment when needed.
These are just a few of the key postures we worked on this evening but the opening affect that I FINALLY had in my low back and hammies was incredible. Hallelujah! Once again thank goodness for teachers that sometimes know what my body needs more than I do. Susan (my teacher) that I have been working with since day 1 about 4 years ago is always willing to put that confidence combined with abandon, stretching and awareness in my poses that I sometimes lack. Her experience and adjustment have gotten me to where I am today.
Believe me there is still plenty that needs to be worked on but just to see the light at the end of the tunnel and know that there is maybe a releasing of some kind on the nagging right side of my low back/hamstring area is a "god sent". Go figure this low back thing has been really peeving me for a while now, probably about a year to be exact. Today about 330pm I called my doc to schedule an MRI of my lumbar/thoracic spine for the 1st of Feb. I've been wanting to make this MRI appt for some time now for piece of mind. Also to make sure that there isn't more going on back there besides a good pulling on my psoas, sciatic nerve and the list goes on..... By 700pm this evening, half way through our class my back was feeling as if it was giving me some relief for the first time in a long time.
What the heck! Go figure??
Namaste
25-A bit more Viloma Pranayama
When Viloma Pranayama is practiced in gradual stage, without any aggressive holding of the breath, this breathing method can have a profound affect on your asana practice, giving you a new incoming breath. According to Matthew Sweeney it will help with postures that persist as being difficult or awkward in some way. By lengthening the inhalation smoothly and in stages, the lower back also tends to lengthen, giving more space for the lower lumbar and vertebral discs. This can free the spine from unwanted tension and pain.
I'm sure we all have our tensions and pain's as we connect with our bodies throughout our yoga practice. Finding those areas in our hips, shoulders, low back's and the list goes on, that have yet to be accessed prior to yoga. Now that we are telling them to wake up and join the yoga party they don't want to cooperate at all times, but I guess the ego can't have everything it's way:)
Why is it that some areas of the body seem to always seem more violent or resistant to stretching more than others? I've been told by numerous teachers, including my own that it's your body's way of opening up. Old emotions hidden deep within the muscles walls are now coming to the surface. Maybe it is that you are holding tension while practicing and not being fully conscious and aware of your body in space? Possibly so? I'm willing to stick around and figure it all out little by little with the help of this blog, my trusty body, yoga mat, mind, soul and breath.
I will continue to just smile and pay attention to both the inhale and exhale of my breath.
Namaste
I'm sure we all have our tensions and pain's as we connect with our bodies throughout our yoga practice. Finding those areas in our hips, shoulders, low back's and the list goes on, that have yet to be accessed prior to yoga. Now that we are telling them to wake up and join the yoga party they don't want to cooperate at all times, but I guess the ego can't have everything it's way:)
Why is it that some areas of the body seem to always seem more violent or resistant to stretching more than others? I've been told by numerous teachers, including my own that it's your body's way of opening up. Old emotions hidden deep within the muscles walls are now coming to the surface. Maybe it is that you are holding tension while practicing and not being fully conscious and aware of your body in space? Possibly so? I'm willing to stick around and figure it all out little by little with the help of this blog, my trusty body, yoga mat, mind, soul and breath.
I will continue to just smile and pay attention to both the inhale and exhale of my breath.
Namaste
24- Viloma Pranayama as taught by Matthew Sweeney
This evening I decided that a pranayama practice was needed. So I pulled out Matthew Sweeney's superb instructional book again and read about Viloma Pranayama. As I read I performed the breathing exercise according to his instruction's below.
Here we go. Feel free to follow along and give it a go.
Loma means hair and vi means against, so this breathing practice means to go against the grain. It is natural that the exhalation is longer than the inhalation, so in this case you will begin to lengthen the inhalation against natural tension. Start by sitting comfortably in an upright position with your hands resting on your knees. Tucking you chin slightly towards your chest without collapsing the back of your neck. Extend the crown of your head towards the ceiling. Relax your face and in particular release any tension around the eyes and jaw. Maintain a soft ujjayi breath.
-Exhale slowly and completely.
-Inhale for 2 seconds. Pause and softly hold the breath (without locking the throat) for 2 seconds.
-Inhale a little more for 2 seconds. Again pause the breath gently for 2 seconds.
-Continue for a total of 4 inhalations and 4 pauses. Do not breathe out completely until after the last pause.
-Exhale smoothly and continuously for a steady count of 4 (with 2 seconds per count). Repeat the inhalations and pauses again for the count of 4.
- Inhale and pause;inhale and pause,etc, followed by a long smooth exhalation.
- On the 3rd round increase the number of inhalations and pauses to 5. Repeat this once.
-On the 5th round increase the number of inhalations and pauses to 6. Repeat this once.
***The length of the inhalation and the length of the pauses should be the same.***
If at any time you fell there is too much pressure, or that you are forced to lock the body in some way, desist. Try to work your way towards a count of 8, 9, or 10. Then slowly come back down the scale, still pausing on the inhalation followed by a smooth exhalation. That is , if you are at a count of 10, come down to 9, then 8,etc..doing only one round of each until the breath is completely back to normal.
Initially this pranayama should be learnt without the full jalandhara kumbhaka, or throat lock. The correct term for these pauses between breaths is sthamba rather than kumbhaka. The aim is to pause rather than lock. The intention is not to learn how to hold the breath, but to balance the inhalation and exhalation, and to observe the natural tension b/t them.
Namaste.
May your breath be full.
Here we go. Feel free to follow along and give it a go.
Loma means hair and vi means against, so this breathing practice means to go against the grain. It is natural that the exhalation is longer than the inhalation, so in this case you will begin to lengthen the inhalation against natural tension. Start by sitting comfortably in an upright position with your hands resting on your knees. Tucking you chin slightly towards your chest without collapsing the back of your neck. Extend the crown of your head towards the ceiling. Relax your face and in particular release any tension around the eyes and jaw. Maintain a soft ujjayi breath.
-Exhale slowly and completely.
-Inhale for 2 seconds. Pause and softly hold the breath (without locking the throat) for 2 seconds.
-Inhale a little more for 2 seconds. Again pause the breath gently for 2 seconds.
-Continue for a total of 4 inhalations and 4 pauses. Do not breathe out completely until after the last pause.
-Exhale smoothly and continuously for a steady count of 4 (with 2 seconds per count). Repeat the inhalations and pauses again for the count of 4.
- Inhale and pause;inhale and pause,etc, followed by a long smooth exhalation.
- On the 3rd round increase the number of inhalations and pauses to 5. Repeat this once.
-On the 5th round increase the number of inhalations and pauses to 6. Repeat this once.
***The length of the inhalation and the length of the pauses should be the same.***
If at any time you fell there is too much pressure, or that you are forced to lock the body in some way, desist. Try to work your way towards a count of 8, 9, or 10. Then slowly come back down the scale, still pausing on the inhalation followed by a smooth exhalation. That is , if you are at a count of 10, come down to 9, then 8,etc..doing only one round of each until the breath is completely back to normal.
Initially this pranayama should be learnt without the full jalandhara kumbhaka, or throat lock. The correct term for these pauses between breaths is sthamba rather than kumbhaka. The aim is to pause rather than lock. The intention is not to learn how to hold the breath, but to balance the inhalation and exhalation, and to observe the natural tension b/t them.
Namaste.
May your breath be full.
23-One more post about Savasana
Saturday morning was spent at a fellow teacher trainer's morning vinyasa class. Thanks to Mary Ann our day was started off on the right foot.
As practice winded down and I found myself once again in savasana I took the opportunity to truly be present with my body, mind and spirit.
Lying there I truthfully can say that I had no hatred in me at this point, I couldn't generate a hateful, or deceitful, or sly thought in this pose. It was not possible. I could almost feel the vibration of purity in my body that the asana practice had brought on. It raised my consciousness and intention to a higher, more spiritual plane. In that moment, I was able to feel how yoga is a spiritual science, not a physical work out. Bare awareness is all I felt and it was beautiful. The warmth of the sun's rays coming from the overhead skylight were beaming on me as I lay in savasana and I was so thankful for those rays after numerous days of rain here in San Diego:)
I find that when I achieve peace in Savasana, I try to remind myself that I can call upon this feeling, contact this place inside me, at any time during the day.
As does my dog Izzy.....Seen below. She is also appreciative of the sunny SD rays of sunshine.
As practice winded down and I found myself once again in savasana I took the opportunity to truly be present with my body, mind and spirit.
Lying there I truthfully can say that I had no hatred in me at this point, I couldn't generate a hateful, or deceitful, or sly thought in this pose. It was not possible. I could almost feel the vibration of purity in my body that the asana practice had brought on. It raised my consciousness and intention to a higher, more spiritual plane. In that moment, I was able to feel how yoga is a spiritual science, not a physical work out. Bare awareness is all I felt and it was beautiful. The warmth of the sun's rays coming from the overhead skylight were beaming on me as I lay in savasana and I was so thankful for those rays after numerous days of rain here in San Diego:)
I find that when I achieve peace in Savasana, I try to remind myself that I can call upon this feeling, contact this place inside me, at any time during the day.
As does my dog Izzy.....Seen below. She is also appreciative of the sunny SD rays of sunshine.
22-Chandra Krama "Moon Sequence"
These Friday work days always seem to beat me down:( I don't know why I allow them to do so? I came home with an aching back and a slight headache and not in the mood to step on my mat this evening. With my commitment to yoga in the back of my head and knowing I would feel better after a few poses I decided to dig out Matthew Sweeney's book I had purchased back in July of 09' during one of his workshops in Encinitas. It is called Vinyasa Krama, Five Unique Sequences. Thanks goodness I did.
With my loving husband offering to cook a dinner of Vegetarian Penne Vodka I jumped on my mat with scrumptious smells floating in the air. I was already feeling better knowing dinner was taken care of. (thx scott)
I chose to do a few poses from Matthew Sweeney's Chandra Krama sequence http://www.yogatemple.com/ It is a practice that is intended for full moon, new moon days and at those times when you are feeling more tired than usual. It is also possible to practice this sequence around many injuries. It doesn't include any jumping or intense poses, but it has just enough spunk to it that it keeps you present and flowing with your breath. This Moon Sequence was designed and written by Matthew a long time (some 18-24+yrs) ashtanga practitioner that had practiced side by side with Guruji for many years back in the 90's. He is a teacher based out of Byron Bay Australia that tours yearly teaching his complimentary Astanga series. I feel so fortunate to have been able to take a 2 day workshop with Matthew. His demeanor as a teacher of yoga is both compassionate and knowledgeable. These qualities are portrayed beautifully in his sequences reminding us to bring our practice to new heights and awareness to each and every moment.
Half way through the two hour sequence I called it quits feeling lighter and rejuvenated. My low back was not yelling at me anymore and my mind was in a healthier realm.
Let's eat.
Namaste
P.S. I highly recommend listening to the interview with Yoga Peeps that Matthew did back in 07'. It really shed some light on becoming a yoga teacher and the practice in general from his perspective.
http://yogapeeps.com/main/2007/episode-41-matthew-sweeney-australia-2/271
With my loving husband offering to cook a dinner of Vegetarian Penne Vodka I jumped on my mat with scrumptious smells floating in the air. I was already feeling better knowing dinner was taken care of. (thx scott)
I chose to do a few poses from Matthew Sweeney's Chandra Krama sequence http://www.yogatemple.com/ It is a practice that is intended for full moon, new moon days and at those times when you are feeling more tired than usual. It is also possible to practice this sequence around many injuries. It doesn't include any jumping or intense poses, but it has just enough spunk to it that it keeps you present and flowing with your breath. This Moon Sequence was designed and written by Matthew a long time (some 18-24+yrs) ashtanga practitioner that had practiced side by side with Guruji for many years back in the 90's. He is a teacher based out of Byron Bay Australia that tours yearly teaching his complimentary Astanga series. I feel so fortunate to have been able to take a 2 day workshop with Matthew. His demeanor as a teacher of yoga is both compassionate and knowledgeable. These qualities are portrayed beautifully in his sequences reminding us to bring our practice to new heights and awareness to each and every moment.
Half way through the two hour sequence I called it quits feeling lighter and rejuvenated. My low back was not yelling at me anymore and my mind was in a healthier realm.
Let's eat.
Namaste
P.S. I highly recommend listening to the interview with Yoga Peeps that Matthew did back in 07'. It really shed some light on becoming a yoga teacher and the practice in general from his perspective.
http://yogapeeps.com/main/2007/episode-41-matthew-sweeney-australia-2/271
Day 21
Savasana is a golden opportunity to draw deeper into your own being.
Savasana allows you to stop, listen, feel and observe. Turning your awareness inward. So often, we are focused on external things—-now is the opportunity to rest your mind from external distractions and experience the sense of peace that is available to you now, and in every moment. During savasana, the body becomes relaxed and still. As your body relaxes, the mind too, relaxes. You may find yourself being drawn deeply into the inner landscape of your being. As your body rests, allow your mind to feel tranquil, peaceful and serene—-this is the state between waking and sleeping. To experience this state fully, focus your attention on the breath. Feel its subtle energy flowing into your body with the inhalation. Allow the breath to draw you into the space of stillness that resides within you. With each breath, allow yourself to fully relax into this space of stillness.
"In Savasana often we want to fidget, move, adjust our hair, fix the towel — we want to do everything but just BE.
But the key to Savasana is the Stillness. It’s the Stillness that allows us to OBSERVE and determine whether these urges and desires truly need to be ACTED upon.
This trains us to do the same in life: by practicing Stillness, we nurture the ability to discern the difference between what we WANT, and what we NEED in our lives.
This is one of the many values of the Stillness in Savasana…and also Stillness in our Lives". -QUOTED from a fellow yogi:)
Namaste and be......
Savasana allows you to stop, listen, feel and observe. Turning your awareness inward. So often, we are focused on external things—-now is the opportunity to rest your mind from external distractions and experience the sense of peace that is available to you now, and in every moment. During savasana, the body becomes relaxed and still. As your body relaxes, the mind too, relaxes. You may find yourself being drawn deeply into the inner landscape of your being. As your body rests, allow your mind to feel tranquil, peaceful and serene—-this is the state between waking and sleeping. To experience this state fully, focus your attention on the breath. Feel its subtle energy flowing into your body with the inhalation. Allow the breath to draw you into the space of stillness that resides within you. With each breath, allow yourself to fully relax into this space of stillness.
"In Savasana often we want to fidget, move, adjust our hair, fix the towel — we want to do everything but just BE.
But the key to Savasana is the Stillness. It’s the Stillness that allows us to OBSERVE and determine whether these urges and desires truly need to be ACTED upon.
This trains us to do the same in life: by practicing Stillness, we nurture the ability to discern the difference between what we WANT, and what we NEED in our lives.
This is one of the many values of the Stillness in Savasana…and also Stillness in our Lives". -QUOTED from a fellow yogi:)
Namaste and be......
Day 20
Savasana tonight after practice was peaceful, rejuvenating and needed!!
For those of you that have not experienced Savasana and are intrigued by it's benefits. Feel free to give it a try.
1. Lie down on your back on the floor or your mat.
2. Allowing your feet to fall out to either side of your body about hip width distance apart.
3. Bringing the arms alongside the body, but slightly separated from the body, and turn the palms to face upwards.
4. Relax the whole body, including the face. Let the body feel heavy. It feels as though your body is weightless and you are falling into the floor.
5. Let your breath occur naturally. Let go of the "ujjayi" breath
6. After about 10 minutes of lying down contently gently awaken your fingers, toes and mind. Deepen the breath and slowly roll to your right side bending your knees to your chest as you roll onto your right side. Keeping your eyes closed for one inhale and exhale breath.
7. On the next inhale slowly bring yourself back up into a sitting position. Feel free to take lotus posture or a comfortable seated posture of your choice.
Finish by saying peace (namaste) to your fellow yogis and teacher. Go about your day being thankful:)
For those of you that have not experienced Savasana and are intrigued by it's benefits. Feel free to give it a try.
1. Lie down on your back on the floor or your mat.
2. Allowing your feet to fall out to either side of your body about hip width distance apart.
3. Bringing the arms alongside the body, but slightly separated from the body, and turn the palms to face upwards.
4. Relax the whole body, including the face. Let the body feel heavy. It feels as though your body is weightless and you are falling into the floor.
5. Let your breath occur naturally. Let go of the "ujjayi" breath
6. After about 10 minutes of lying down contently gently awaken your fingers, toes and mind. Deepen the breath and slowly roll to your right side bending your knees to your chest as you roll onto your right side. Keeping your eyes closed for one inhale and exhale breath.
7. On the next inhale slowly bring yourself back up into a sitting position. Feel free to take lotus posture or a comfortable seated posture of your choice.
Finish by saying peace (namaste) to your fellow yogis and teacher. Go about your day being thankful:)
Day 19-Tuesday
For the next few days my blogs are going to focus on Savasana Pose. It is such an essential yet beneficial part to the yoga practice that I think just one blog post won't do it justice. So bear with me as we learn about this often overlooked posture.
The practice of Savasana "Corpse Pose" is the one pose that must be savored at the end of each practice session. The main aim behind this asana is to provide relaxation to the body after a yoga session helping to cool down the body and mind. Various teachers, students, my own opinion and readings I have come across will all be game over the next few days as we learn some more about Savasana (such a beautiful Sanskrit word)
It is a practice for peace that should last about 10 minutes to reap the full benefits. Sometimes overlooked, often underestimated, the practice of savasana integrates asana into all layers of consciousness. But its more subtle and profound payoff is the experience of relaxation in everything we do. When the mind is constantly working, there’s no awareness of one’s creativity, potential or joy.
The Bhagavad Gita states that the “highest happiness comes upon the yogi whose mind is calmed.” Swami Rama said, “A quiet mind is the foundation for cultivating a joyful mind; happiness is always preceded by peace.” Translation: an uptight yogi is an unhappy yogi.
Therefore, it’s important to remember that when we lie in savasana, we are exercising the essential component of our inner peace practice.
Seasoned yogis know that savasana is not as easy as it looks. To invigorate and refresh both mind and body through conscious relaxation requires patience, mindfulness and alertness. Therefore, this seemingly easy posture is one of the most difficult to master, yet one of the best for preparing for meditation.
Many practitioners, including myself on more occasions than not find myself dreaming, thoughts of dinner pop into my mind, future vacations, to-do lists, etc. Call it spiritual ignorance, but for a long time I felt savasana was an extraneous and difficult part of yoga class.
I have found that it is a chance to be still and focus our energy inward.
Unsure of whether we are awake or asleep, we can feel our heart beat. We can watch the mind race and we can choose to let these things go (even if it is only for a brief moment)and settle deeper and deeper in the essence of who we are.
Namaste, Julie P
(that was a long winded blog)
The practice of Savasana "Corpse Pose" is the one pose that must be savored at the end of each practice session. The main aim behind this asana is to provide relaxation to the body after a yoga session helping to cool down the body and mind. Various teachers, students, my own opinion and readings I have come across will all be game over the next few days as we learn some more about Savasana (such a beautiful Sanskrit word)
It is a practice for peace that should last about 10 minutes to reap the full benefits. Sometimes overlooked, often underestimated, the practice of savasana integrates asana into all layers of consciousness. But its more subtle and profound payoff is the experience of relaxation in everything we do. When the mind is constantly working, there’s no awareness of one’s creativity, potential or joy.
The Bhagavad Gita states that the “highest happiness comes upon the yogi whose mind is calmed.” Swami Rama said, “A quiet mind is the foundation for cultivating a joyful mind; happiness is always preceded by peace.” Translation: an uptight yogi is an unhappy yogi.
Therefore, it’s important to remember that when we lie in savasana, we are exercising the essential component of our inner peace practice.
Seasoned yogis know that savasana is not as easy as it looks. To invigorate and refresh both mind and body through conscious relaxation requires patience, mindfulness and alertness. Therefore, this seemingly easy posture is one of the most difficult to master, yet one of the best for preparing for meditation.
Many practitioners, including myself on more occasions than not find myself dreaming, thoughts of dinner pop into my mind, future vacations, to-do lists, etc. Call it spiritual ignorance, but for a long time I felt savasana was an extraneous and difficult part of yoga class.
I have found that it is a chance to be still and focus our energy inward.
Unsure of whether we are awake or asleep, we can feel our heart beat. We can watch the mind race and we can choose to let these things go (even if it is only for a brief moment)and settle deeper and deeper in the essence of who we are.
Namaste, Julie P
(that was a long winded blog)
Monday Day 18 on Jan 18,2010
Who is a sugar fiend? I am ...I am...
Here is a great recipe I tried out this past Saturday and it was a hit...No leftover's for me:( But it is a really quick easy recipe so I plan on making some more this week..Yummy in my tummy
VEGAN ICED OATMEAL COOKIES-makes 12-18 cookies
To keep the icing for these chewy morsels from cracking, spread it on while the cookies are still hot.
Cookies:
2 Tbs. Flaxseed meal (ground flaxseeds in a food processor probably works too)
1 cup oat flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt ICING:
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 Tbs vegan margarine,softened 3/4 cup confectioners sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar 2 Tbs lemon juice
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup applesauce
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups old fashioned Oats
1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
1. To make cookies: Stir together flaxseed meal and 3 Tbs water in small bowl. Set aside. Whisk together oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in large bowl. Set aside.
2.Beat margarine, brown sugar and sugar in large bowl with electric mixer 1-2 minutes, or until light and fluffy. Add applesauce and vanill, and beat until smooth. Stir in oat flour mixture with spatula. Add oats, raisins and flaxseed mixture and stir to combine. Cover, and chill for at least 1 hour or overnight.
3.Preheat oven to 350 F. Line 2 baking sheets with cooking spray. Roll cookie dough into golf ball-sized rounds, and place dough balls in 1 1/2 inches apart. Flatten each cookie to 1/4 inch thickness with bottom of drinking glass dipped in water. Bake 10-12 minutes or until cookies look dry on top and are jusst beginning to brown.
4. Meanwhile to make Icing: Whisk together confectioners' sugar and lemon juice in small bowl until smmoth: Icing should be thick, but spreadable. Gently brush Icing on hot cookies. Cool 5 min. Then EAT!!!!
Here is a great recipe I tried out this past Saturday and it was a hit...No leftover's for me:( But it is a really quick easy recipe so I plan on making some more this week..Yummy in my tummy
VEGAN ICED OATMEAL COOKIES-makes 12-18 cookies
To keep the icing for these chewy morsels from cracking, spread it on while the cookies are still hot.
Cookies:
2 Tbs. Flaxseed meal (ground flaxseeds in a food processor probably works too)
1 cup oat flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt ICING:
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 Tbs vegan margarine,softened 3/4 cup confectioners sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar 2 Tbs lemon juice
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup applesauce
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups old fashioned Oats
1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
1. To make cookies: Stir together flaxseed meal and 3 Tbs water in small bowl. Set aside. Whisk together oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in large bowl. Set aside.
2.Beat margarine, brown sugar and sugar in large bowl with electric mixer 1-2 minutes, or until light and fluffy. Add applesauce and vanill, and beat until smooth. Stir in oat flour mixture with spatula. Add oats, raisins and flaxseed mixture and stir to combine. Cover, and chill for at least 1 hour or overnight.
3.Preheat oven to 350 F. Line 2 baking sheets with cooking spray. Roll cookie dough into golf ball-sized rounds, and place dough balls in 1 1/2 inches apart. Flatten each cookie to 1/4 inch thickness with bottom of drinking glass dipped in water. Bake 10-12 minutes or until cookies look dry on top and are jusst beginning to brown.
4. Meanwhile to make Icing: Whisk together confectioners' sugar and lemon juice in small bowl until smmoth: Icing should be thick, but spreadable. Gently brush Icing on hot cookies. Cool 5 min. Then EAT!!!!
Sunday Day 17
Today was spent relaxing back into a sunday routine after I dropped my little Bro, Ryan off at the airport. The day consisted of catching up on laundry, cleaning up house and of course YOGA.
This evening I rolled out my mat in the T.V. room and followed along as Richard Freeman guided me through the primary series of Ashtanga Yoga on DVD. His voice is so soothing that our dog, Izzy fell asleep on the couch peacefully in a doggie child's pose as I practiced 3 feet away from her. Jumping, balancing and all she didn't budge an inch. I wish I had taken a picture of her, it was priceless.
The primary sequence in Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga is called "Yoga Chikitsa," which means "yoga therapy." The purpose of this sequence is to align the spine and detoxify the body, as well as to build flexibility, strength, and stamina. This is said to be the most demanding style of Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga, because it consists of so many poses (75! to be exact) and because it is rather time consuming (approximately 2 1/2 hours to complete the entire series). I only made it through 1 hr and 15 minutes last night, but I was happy with that:)
The series begins with Sun Salutations A and B that get the body heated, followed by breath synchronized standing postures. Keeping the awareness of body, mind and breath while moving from standing to 35 seated postures. This seated series goes through active segments, then rests the body with some less complicated postures. Then, it requires the body to work hard once again before finally finishing the series with an ending sequence. This ending sequence is the final step after the seated postures that really allows the body to cool itself down and prepare for savasana.
Savasana should be taken for at least 10 minutes to reap the benefits of your practice.
Namaste, Julie
This evening I rolled out my mat in the T.V. room and followed along as Richard Freeman guided me through the primary series of Ashtanga Yoga on DVD. His voice is so soothing that our dog, Izzy fell asleep on the couch peacefully in a doggie child's pose as I practiced 3 feet away from her. Jumping, balancing and all she didn't budge an inch. I wish I had taken a picture of her, it was priceless.
The primary sequence in Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga is called "Yoga Chikitsa," which means "yoga therapy." The purpose of this sequence is to align the spine and detoxify the body, as well as to build flexibility, strength, and stamina. This is said to be the most demanding style of Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga, because it consists of so many poses (75! to be exact) and because it is rather time consuming (approximately 2 1/2 hours to complete the entire series). I only made it through 1 hr and 15 minutes last night, but I was happy with that:)
The series begins with Sun Salutations A and B that get the body heated, followed by breath synchronized standing postures. Keeping the awareness of body, mind and breath while moving from standing to 35 seated postures. This seated series goes through active segments, then rests the body with some less complicated postures. Then, it requires the body to work hard once again before finally finishing the series with an ending sequence. This ending sequence is the final step after the seated postures that really allows the body to cool itself down and prepare for savasana.
Savasana should be taken for at least 10 minutes to reap the benefits of your practice.
Namaste, Julie
Day 16 -Saturday
Today's Saturday morning began with a refreshing pranayama (breathing) exercise called Nadi Sodhana(Alternate Nostril Breathing). Sitting in a comfortable cross legged position on the floor in my bedroom I began a 10 minute breathing exercise that would allow my sinuses to clear all while decreasing neck and facial tension. This particular breathing exercise is also said to improve intelligence & brain functioning (could use some more of that), particularly the communication between left and right brain hemispheres.
I did not video tape myself while performing the breathing exercise, but here is a video I found on youtube that goes over the basic's of the pranayama.
Try it out............
I did not video tape myself while performing the breathing exercise, but here is a video I found on youtube that goes over the basic's of the pranayama.
Try it out............
Day 15-Friday
My Friday was spent working from 9-5pm at the hospital and my yogic focus for the day was Karuna. Karuna is the sanskrit word meaning compassion, active sympathy, gentle affection and a willingness to bear the pain of others.
Compassion has been on my mind this past week as the media has kept us informed of the catastrophic earthquake in Haiti that has taken the lives of many loved ones. Many fellow health care employee's, friends and loved ones have mentioned in conversations over the past week that they don't know how to show their compassion towards the suffering going on in Haiti? My only answer so far has been to donate what you can in any small amount within your local community. Whether that be donating blood to the Red Cross, money, food, clothing or your prayers? It all helps in the grand scheme of things. I added a link in the top left hand corner of my blog to make donating all that more accessible for those who are feeling the need to give:)
In The Essence of the Heart Sutra, His Holiness the Dalai Lama wrote,
"According to Buddhism, compassion is an aspiration, a state of mind, wanting others to be free from suffering. It's not passive -- it's not empathy alone -- but rather an empathetic altruism that actively strives to free others from suffering. Genuine compassion must have both wisdom and lovingkindness. That is to say, one must understand the nature of the suffering from which we wish to free others (this is wisdom), and one must experience deep intimacy and empathy with other sentient beings (this is lovingkindness)."
The practice of karuna asks us to open to pain without drawing away or guarding our hearts. It asks us to dare to touch our deepest wounds--and to touch the wounds of others as if they were our own. When we stop pushing away our own humanity--in all of its darkness and glory--we become more able to embrace other people with compassion as well.
Namaste, Julie
Compassion has been on my mind this past week as the media has kept us informed of the catastrophic earthquake in Haiti that has taken the lives of many loved ones. Many fellow health care employee's, friends and loved ones have mentioned in conversations over the past week that they don't know how to show their compassion towards the suffering going on in Haiti? My only answer so far has been to donate what you can in any small amount within your local community. Whether that be donating blood to the Red Cross, money, food, clothing or your prayers? It all helps in the grand scheme of things. I added a link in the top left hand corner of my blog to make donating all that more accessible for those who are feeling the need to give:)
In The Essence of the Heart Sutra, His Holiness the Dalai Lama wrote,
"According to Buddhism, compassion is an aspiration, a state of mind, wanting others to be free from suffering. It's not passive -- it's not empathy alone -- but rather an empathetic altruism that actively strives to free others from suffering. Genuine compassion must have both wisdom and lovingkindness. That is to say, one must understand the nature of the suffering from which we wish to free others (this is wisdom), and one must experience deep intimacy and empathy with other sentient beings (this is lovingkindness)."
The practice of karuna asks us to open to pain without drawing away or guarding our hearts. It asks us to dare to touch our deepest wounds--and to touch the wounds of others as if they were our own. When we stop pushing away our own humanity--in all of its darkness and glory--we become more able to embrace other people with compassion as well.
Namaste, Julie
Day 14 ----Thursday
Happy Thursday! Or should I say Happy Paid time off from Work Day because my brother is visiting?
This morning I let Ryan sleep in and I grabbed a morning yoga class with my friend Tab. She got called off from work as of last night and sent me a text wondering if I wanted to go to a yoga class with her in the a.m? Of course! We headed off to the Haven at 0930 for an hour and a half of yoga bliss:)
Today's class blended teaching's of "tapas" with plenty of challenging poses presented by our teacher this morning.
I found this definition of tapas on the Internet that I thought best described "tapas" in it's entirety.........Read Below ....
Tapas is loosely defined to mean enthusiasm, excitement and discipline towards yoga--a sort of inner fire to be the best you can be while practicing yoga. In order to fully commit to yoga, many believe you must practice tapas in its entirety. Read on to learn how to practice tapas in yoga.
InstructionsThings You'll Need:
Basic Yoga Knowledge
Step 1. Find self-discipline to practice yoga. Creating tapas with your yoga means starting daily practice for even a few minutes at home each day. Instead of making excuses, find a way to work yoga into your life.
Step 2. Listen to you body and work harder to make it balanced. Never give up on a yoga pose or do it half-heartedly. Find the tapas in yourself to take it to the next level.
Step 3. Strive for purity. By practicing tapas, each pose creates raw energy that stimulates the muscles and the mind. By practicing tapas and exhibiting purity in daily life, you are constantly becoming closer to your soul, or god, depending on what you are searching for?
Step 4. Practice tapas with each asana. Push down a little bit further, breathe deeper and strive to reach a higher spirituality.
Step 5. Simplify your life to practice true tapas. As you unclutter your mind from material possessions, you may be able to more closely focused on the teachings of yoga. With the distraction of television, MP3 players and cell phones, you need to exert extra tapas to make it through the day.
Step 6. Learn to appreciate stillness. Tapas does not need constant movement. Energy can be created from remaining perfectly still. Discipline is needed to hold the same pose for 15 minutes or more. Let tapas keep your arms from sagging, your back straight and your head in the asana.
Step 7. Remember that tapas is a yoga concept that can be applied to any part of your life. It is not something that must be done, it simply is done. It is an internal discipline that drives you forward, using yoga as its medium.
Namaste. May you practice tapas ( I am not talking about the the spanish appetizer's here) with great vigor and enjoyment:)
This morning I let Ryan sleep in and I grabbed a morning yoga class with my friend Tab. She got called off from work as of last night and sent me a text wondering if I wanted to go to a yoga class with her in the a.m? Of course! We headed off to the Haven at 0930 for an hour and a half of yoga bliss:)
Today's class blended teaching's of "tapas" with plenty of challenging poses presented by our teacher this morning.
I found this definition of tapas on the Internet that I thought best described "tapas" in it's entirety.........Read Below ....
Tapas is loosely defined to mean enthusiasm, excitement and discipline towards yoga--a sort of inner fire to be the best you can be while practicing yoga. In order to fully commit to yoga, many believe you must practice tapas in its entirety. Read on to learn how to practice tapas in yoga.
InstructionsThings You'll Need:
Basic Yoga Knowledge
Step 1. Find self-discipline to practice yoga. Creating tapas with your yoga means starting daily practice for even a few minutes at home each day. Instead of making excuses, find a way to work yoga into your life.
Step 2. Listen to you body and work harder to make it balanced. Never give up on a yoga pose or do it half-heartedly. Find the tapas in yourself to take it to the next level.
Step 3. Strive for purity. By practicing tapas, each pose creates raw energy that stimulates the muscles and the mind. By practicing tapas and exhibiting purity in daily life, you are constantly becoming closer to your soul, or god, depending on what you are searching for?
Step 4. Practice tapas with each asana. Push down a little bit further, breathe deeper and strive to reach a higher spirituality.
Step 5. Simplify your life to practice true tapas. As you unclutter your mind from material possessions, you may be able to more closely focused on the teachings of yoga. With the distraction of television, MP3 players and cell phones, you need to exert extra tapas to make it through the day.
Step 6. Learn to appreciate stillness. Tapas does not need constant movement. Energy can be created from remaining perfectly still. Discipline is needed to hold the same pose for 15 minutes or more. Let tapas keep your arms from sagging, your back straight and your head in the asana.
Step 7. Remember that tapas is a yoga concept that can be applied to any part of your life. It is not something that must be done, it simply is done. It is an internal discipline that drives you forward, using yoga as its medium.
Namaste. May you practice tapas ( I am not talking about the the spanish appetizer's here) with great vigor and enjoyment:)
Day 13
My Little Brother Ryan is in town!
He was nice enough to make an additional stop over here in SD after his mini vacation in Salt Lake City, Utah last week. From what I have been told it sounds like the last week for him was spent skiing with childhood buddies and meeting snow bunnies on the slopes (Not too shabby). While in SD Ry and I have been spending some quality sibling time enjoying some fun in the sun, taking mini road trips to tourist sites and eating some deliciouso Mexican comida!
To make his trip even that more memorable I got him to join me in a yoga class the night after he arrived in SD;) I figured his muscles needed a good stretching after all that high impact skiing he did over the past week and I still needed to keep my commitment of doing yoga during my 365. To my surprise I think Ry kinda enjoyed the class? I know your not supposed to watch others practice because it can be distracting and a bit rude but towards the end of class we were practicing our headstands.......... Once I had made it to the floor after my headstand and was quietly waiting in childs pose I glanced to my Bro's mat on my left. Low and behold Ry ( ALL 6'2'' of him) was eloquently perched against the wall testing his limit's and shoulder strength. Job Well Done Ryan. Thanks for spending some QT (quality time) with your big sis.
He still has a few more days in SD. Lets see if I can get him to a class at the Haven? Maybe Sat?
BIG SISTER's RULE!!
He was nice enough to make an additional stop over here in SD after his mini vacation in Salt Lake City, Utah last week. From what I have been told it sounds like the last week for him was spent skiing with childhood buddies and meeting snow bunnies on the slopes (Not too shabby). While in SD Ry and I have been spending some quality sibling time enjoying some fun in the sun, taking mini road trips to tourist sites and eating some deliciouso Mexican comida!
To make his trip even that more memorable I got him to join me in a yoga class the night after he arrived in SD;) I figured his muscles needed a good stretching after all that high impact skiing he did over the past week and I still needed to keep my commitment of doing yoga during my 365. To my surprise I think Ry kinda enjoyed the class? I know your not supposed to watch others practice because it can be distracting and a bit rude but towards the end of class we were practicing our headstands.......... Once I had made it to the floor after my headstand and was quietly waiting in childs pose I glanced to my Bro's mat on my left. Low and behold Ry ( ALL 6'2'' of him) was eloquently perched against the wall testing his limit's and shoulder strength. Job Well Done Ryan. Thanks for spending some QT (quality time) with your big sis.
He still has a few more days in SD. Lets see if I can get him to a class at the Haven? Maybe Sat?
BIG SISTER's RULE!!
Day 12
This morning before going to work I fit in a few sun salutations of Surya Namaskara A and B followed by some hamstring and external hip stretches. A total of 15-20 minutes was spent on my mat allowing me to start my day off without a cup of coffee and feeling refreshed. As most of you know I have never been much of a morning person, but some things can change with time right? You never know what your capable of unless you give it a try.
I have found that many people always ask me the question how often do you practice? Everyone's practice is very individual and experiential. Now that I have fully committed myself to this 365 I have found myself fitting in yoga every day, but prior to Jan 1 I definitely had my up's and down's of keeping a consistent practice. I would allow errands, social events, work events, medical appt's, vacations etc to take me away from a disciplined yoga routine. Now I can honestly say that I am starting to find pleasure in my practice making it much easier for me to be dedicated to the commitment at hand. Whether it be 5 min or 2 hours finding a routine that you can stick with will allow you to see greater results. Whatever those results may be? All you really need to practice is a tiny space to fit your mat, yourself and making the time.
I also have found that when I practice yoga, everything else in my life seems to flow much smoother. Suddenly I have the time for friends, family, errands and more yoga! More patience overcomes me and steady composure allows me to perform my daily activities with resilience. Unfortunately we can't avoid all of the stresses that life throws at us. Our only real control is how we react to the waves of challenges that are thrust upon us.- David Swenson.
I have found that many people always ask me the question how often do you practice? Everyone's practice is very individual and experiential. Now that I have fully committed myself to this 365 I have found myself fitting in yoga every day, but prior to Jan 1 I definitely had my up's and down's of keeping a consistent practice. I would allow errands, social events, work events, medical appt's, vacations etc to take me away from a disciplined yoga routine. Now I can honestly say that I am starting to find pleasure in my practice making it much easier for me to be dedicated to the commitment at hand. Whether it be 5 min or 2 hours finding a routine that you can stick with will allow you to see greater results. Whatever those results may be? All you really need to practice is a tiny space to fit your mat, yourself and making the time.
I also have found that when I practice yoga, everything else in my life seems to flow much smoother. Suddenly I have the time for friends, family, errands and more yoga! More patience overcomes me and steady composure allows me to perform my daily activities with resilience. Unfortunately we can't avoid all of the stresses that life throws at us. Our only real control is how we react to the waves of challenges that are thrust upon us.- David Swenson.
Day 11
Tonight's practice was spend next to my hubbie's yoga mat at the studio. I am very proud to say that he came back to practicing with vigor after deciding to take the month of December on a hiatus. Scott says, " His body told him he needed a rest" and that's what he did and I wasn't about to argue;) A happy husband makes a happy wife.
Namaste
Namaste
Day 10
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http://www.wahmusic.com/index.html
Today started off practicing yoga next to a dear friend of The Papek's. So dear that she married us two lovebirds over a year and a half ago. Yes, Champagne you get a mention in the blog:) The hour and half long practice was a fresh start to the day.
Next I headed off to support my good friend Caitlin (soon to be married in Aug 2010) at a Bridal Bazaar located at the Grand Del Mar for a few hours (we snuck in the back door they don't let hoodlum's like us go to these spiffy events. J/K). After a glass of free champagne, a bridal gown fashion show, horderves, cake and a "on the house" candy bar I had to call it quits. And I was only there for an hour and a half!! They sure do bombard those brides with everything but the kitchen sink, but Caitlin looked as if she was holding up just fine as I left.
Now it's 3:15 and I'm heading home from the Bridal Bazaar to meet Scott at the house before we head off to see Wah! in concert at the Haven Yoga Studio. Wah!'s performance this evening was a Silent Auction/Charity Event to support San Diego's homeless youth.
http://www.photocharity.com/
Wah!'s music was so heartfelt and peaceful tonite. Being surrounded by fellow yogi's, friends and teachers made Wah!'s concert all the more meaningful. I hope Photocharity received enough love tonite from the community to help fund the homeless youths in need.
Bhakti, Julie
9 of 365
When you take a deep breath and chant Om, it causes a very calmful effect, which will totally relax your mind and body. It is the first stage of meditation, which aims at drawing your attention away from all other tensions that have occupied your mind. The sound of Om is very pleasant to hear. When accompanied by slow deep breathing, it gives a very gentle massage to your chest, spine, tummy and head.
Om chanting improves the functioning of all organs of the body and thus, helps in curing various diseases. It helps to improve your concentration power, thereby enabling you to grasp more information. Om chanting is like an orientation to the spiritual practices. When your mind is away from all the worldly thoughts, it is the stage when you get truly connected to the almighty God. It infuses vitality in the body and one tends to feel stronger.
Chanting OM before and after yoga class is always an option based on the student's comfort. And when you recite Om, just don't do it for the sake of it. Instead, make a sincere effort to accomplish the purpose of performing it. If you succeed in doing so, there will be amazing feeling in your heart. There is no fixed time of meditating on Om. You can do it as many times as you wish. When your mind is totally able to concentrate, it is at that point of time that you are in a position to realize the power of divinity.
Namaste, Julie
Day ocho of 365
Happy Friday evening!
I have decided to spend my friday night watching the newly released DVD Julie and Julia (based on the life of Julia Childs). A week ago when I mentioned starting a blog to some of my girlfriends they asked me if I had seen Julie & Julia the movie? I hadn't and I had no idea what the connection between the two things would be, if any? Maybe having the same name and blogging?
After watching the movie I figured I should probably let my readers know how this whole blogging idea came about? Basically on a wim. A few days before the new year we found ourselves with a few financial resolutions but nothing too exciting. So to spice up the new year a bit we decided to both do a 365 blog about something we truly are passionate about and wanted to learn more about on a day to day basis. Why not Yoga and Photography? We both have already put plenty of time and energy into our areas of chosen study and it just seemed like this would be the next step. Putting it on paper for the whole world to enjoy and possibly come along for the ride was a no brainer.
I can honestly say that we are OCHO day's in and we are both doing pretty well. No break down's or hissy fit's so far ( Julie in the movie was quite emotional and tempermental throughout her 365 blog). I feel that yoga for me over the next 357 days will be a tool to assist me in becoming more insightful and aware of my mind body relationship. I hope to keep my personal yoga practice as my true guide and use books, movies, workshop's, music, etc as my butter to my bread (only analogy I could come up with at 1030 on a saturday night).
Oh yeah, the movie was a 3 3/4 out of 5 stars. Inspirational and who doesn't love Julia Childs?
I have decided to spend my friday night watching the newly released DVD Julie and Julia (based on the life of Julia Childs). A week ago when I mentioned starting a blog to some of my girlfriends they asked me if I had seen Julie & Julia the movie? I hadn't and I had no idea what the connection between the two things would be, if any? Maybe having the same name and blogging?
After watching the movie I figured I should probably let my readers know how this whole blogging idea came about? Basically on a wim. A few days before the new year we found ourselves with a few financial resolutions but nothing too exciting. So to spice up the new year a bit we decided to both do a 365 blog about something we truly are passionate about and wanted to learn more about on a day to day basis. Why not Yoga and Photography? We both have already put plenty of time and energy into our areas of chosen study and it just seemed like this would be the next step. Putting it on paper for the whole world to enjoy and possibly come along for the ride was a no brainer.
I can honestly say that we are OCHO day's in and we are both doing pretty well. No break down's or hissy fit's so far ( Julie in the movie was quite emotional and tempermental throughout her 365 blog). I feel that yoga for me over the next 357 days will be a tool to assist me in becoming more insightful and aware of my mind body relationship. I hope to keep my personal yoga practice as my true guide and use books, movies, workshop's, music, etc as my butter to my bread (only analogy I could come up with at 1030 on a saturday night).
Oh yeah, the movie was a 3 3/4 out of 5 stars. Inspirational and who doesn't love Julia Childs?
Day 7 of 365 ONE WEEK of BLOGGING completed
Tonight like most weeknights after work was spent at the Haven Yoga Studio surrounded by fellow yogi's. Our hour and a half classes are taught by our aw inspiring yoga studio owner Susan. It's so nice practicing in a warm studio sweating up a storm on a somewhat chilly night in San Diego. Sometimes it's just the little things I'm thankful for.
I attached a sweet video of David Swenson practicing Ashtanga yoga for some onlookers. The precision and beauty with which he moves as if he is the only one in the room is amazing to me. Now that is what I call a "moving meditation with the breath as his guide".
Namaste,
Julie
I attached a sweet video of David Swenson practicing Ashtanga yoga for some onlookers. The precision and beauty with which he moves as if he is the only one in the room is amazing to me. Now that is what I call a "moving meditation with the breath as his guide".
Namaste,
Julie
Day 6
Today was a very memorable and emotional day for myself and loved ones around me. I had to go say farewell to an elderly friend that is currently in the process of ending her life with the assistance of hospice services. This all came about very suddenly due to a surprising diagnosis of stage 5 lung cancer (Really not a big fan of this five letter word) within the past month. It has all happened so suddenly and out of the blue?
I remember her telling me about her diagnosis of Cancer with disapointment in her voice backed with a touch of fear. Since that day in the hospital her spirit and faith has been intact with the help of loving family and friends.
As I sat next to her today at her home and looked into her eyes. I could tell that she was fading away from us into another realm (whatever that may be?) and not looking back. She looked as if she was done fighting and was ready to be reunited with her hugband who had fought the same fight with Lung Cancer just over 5 years ago. Goodbye Mrs G and I wish you well on your journey:) You are loved dearly.
I came across this quote below as I searched for how yoga assist's with the death and dying process. We all are given a multitude of life's challenges throughout our time here. How we choose to grow, love and become more compassionate from them has been my true lesson so far.
The body is born; it grows, ages, and dies. The seer watches this process dispassionately. Pattabhi Jois says, "The body is just a rented house." Through the practice of hatha yoga, we keep the body clean and healthy so it lasts a long time, and at the same time we refine our awareness so we can realize that what dies is the outer covering. Essence endures - Tim Miller
I remember her telling me about her diagnosis of Cancer with disapointment in her voice backed with a touch of fear. Since that day in the hospital her spirit and faith has been intact with the help of loving family and friends.
As I sat next to her today at her home and looked into her eyes. I could tell that she was fading away from us into another realm (whatever that may be?) and not looking back. She looked as if she was done fighting and was ready to be reunited with her hugband who had fought the same fight with Lung Cancer just over 5 years ago. Goodbye Mrs G and I wish you well on your journey:) You are loved dearly.
I came across this quote below as I searched for how yoga assist's with the death and dying process. We all are given a multitude of life's challenges throughout our time here. How we choose to grow, love and become more compassionate from them has been my true lesson so far.
The body is born; it grows, ages, and dies. The seer watches this process dispassionately. Pattabhi Jois says, "The body is just a rented house." Through the practice of hatha yoga, we keep the body clean and healthy so it lasts a long time, and at the same time we refine our awareness so we can realize that what dies is the outer covering. Essence endures - Tim Miller
5/365
Below are some pictures Scott took for me the other night while I was working on some backbends, etc. He is also doing a 365 blog, but for photography. So he got to working on some lighting techniques while I attempted (key word here)to work on my backbends. We had fun and both got our blog posts done for Day 5/365!!
Prepping for a back bend with my hands at hearts center. Take 5 deep and even breath's here, feeling grounded
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Once you feel grounded allow your hands to go straight out behind you with your arms parallell with your ears next to your head. By now you might be feeling the stretch in the front of your hips. If it is too much pressure on your back come up to standing and work on the previous pose before going any further or consider Camel Pose on the ground as another option to prep your back?
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Once you have dropped back into Upward Bow/Backbend/Urdhva Dhanurasana hold there for 5 deep and even breaths. Feel free to drop your head to the ground once and come back up to your backbend. Try this 3 times.
Or slowly start off with one at a time and work yourself up to three? All the while keeping your feet hip width distance apart with toes pointed forward, weight evenly distributed making sure to not dump into your low back. Try to find opening in the front of your hips by gently pushing with your feet and straightening your legs.
Opening your chest will happen progressively as you push through your hands dropping your head back. Slowly and gently gets you there. I'm still working on it, believe me it's not easy and these pictures are not perfect by any means:)
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After a backbend stretch such as Urdhva Dhanurasana. A forward bend (Paschimottanasana A) is a great relief and allows your spine to lengthen. This one is slightly modified with a bend in my knees. Leading with your sternum. Keep both legs active with your heels moving ahead and toes pulling back.
I definitely recommend a good 15 minute warm up before attempting any of the above so you lessen the chance of injuring yourself. I usually do 4-5 Surya Namaskara A & B's prior to any asanas. These allow the body to gain heat and warmth. Setting the rhythm and mood for each yoga session.
"Allow your practice to mature gradually. Be patient and enjoy the journey". -David Swenson.
Prepping for a back bend with my hands at hearts center. Take 5 deep and even breath's here, feeling grounded
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Once you feel grounded allow your hands to go straight out behind you with your arms parallell with your ears next to your head. By now you might be feeling the stretch in the front of your hips. If it is too much pressure on your back come up to standing and work on the previous pose before going any further or consider Camel Pose on the ground as another option to prep your back?
.
.jpg)
Once you have dropped back into Upward Bow/Backbend/Urdhva Dhanurasana hold there for 5 deep and even breaths. Feel free to drop your head to the ground once and come back up to your backbend. Try this 3 times.
Or slowly start off with one at a time and work yourself up to three? All the while keeping your feet hip width distance apart with toes pointed forward, weight evenly distributed making sure to not dump into your low back. Try to find opening in the front of your hips by gently pushing with your feet and straightening your legs.
Opening your chest will happen progressively as you push through your hands dropping your head back. Slowly and gently gets you there. I'm still working on it, believe me it's not easy and these pictures are not perfect by any means:)
.jpg)
After a backbend stretch such as Urdhva Dhanurasana. A forward bend (Paschimottanasana A) is a great relief and allows your spine to lengthen. This one is slightly modified with a bend in my knees. Leading with your sternum. Keep both legs active with your heels moving ahead and toes pulling back.
I definitely recommend a good 15 minute warm up before attempting any of the above so you lessen the chance of injuring yourself. I usually do 4-5 Surya Namaskara A & B's prior to any asanas. These allow the body to gain heat and warmth. Setting the rhythm and mood for each yoga session.
"Allow your practice to mature gradually. Be patient and enjoy the journey". -David Swenson.
Day 3 of 365
Hot Yoga has never been very enjoyable for me in the past. I have tried Bikram and one other studio that offered Hot Yoga options, but it never has been my fancy. I think the whole idea of heating the room to 105-110 degrees F until now has felt like cheating to me (thats just my past biased personal opinion).
I have always practiced with a teacher that has had an Ashtanga/Vinyasa yoga background.
This particular Ashtanga style that I have been following for the past 4 years uses the inhale and exhale breath during practice of the various asanas for 1 1/2hrs to heat the body.
Whereas in Hot Yoga the external heat assists your body in moving with the breath. Either way as long as you get the same benefit whatever that may be for you is great!! As long as you are still using the breath as your guide and not allowing external stimuli like "heat"and beading sweat to distract your practice.
Before I arrived at this particular yoga studio today I made myself not have any past opinions affect my practice. I went to class with a new fresh perspective and no hidden agenda's of whether or not I was going to get my whopping $10 worth. I just enjoyed the flow with my friend's mat by my side and let loose.
Today was the third time and maybe it was the charm? As the hour long class went by I found myself not irritated by the heated room and not paying any attention to surrounding yogi's. It was just me, my sweat and my breath on the mat (Yuckie I know , but it you've ever been to one of these classes you know what I am talking about. It is another level of perspiration altogether).
Long story short yoga may have it's different styles, methods of practice and guruji's to follow. But if the end result is that relaxed connection of body, mind and spirit that everyone talks about then maybe you got it right?
Namaste,
Julie P
I have always practiced with a teacher that has had an Ashtanga/Vinyasa yoga background.
This particular Ashtanga style that I have been following for the past 4 years uses the inhale and exhale breath during practice of the various asanas for 1 1/2hrs to heat the body.
Whereas in Hot Yoga the external heat assists your body in moving with the breath. Either way as long as you get the same benefit whatever that may be for you is great!! As long as you are still using the breath as your guide and not allowing external stimuli like "heat"and beading sweat to distract your practice.
Before I arrived at this particular yoga studio today I made myself not have any past opinions affect my practice. I went to class with a new fresh perspective and no hidden agenda's of whether or not I was going to get my whopping $10 worth. I just enjoyed the flow with my friend's mat by my side and let loose.
Today was the third time and maybe it was the charm? As the hour long class went by I found myself not irritated by the heated room and not paying any attention to surrounding yogi's. It was just me, my sweat and my breath on the mat (Yuckie I know , but it you've ever been to one of these classes you know what I am talking about. It is another level of perspiration altogether).
Long story short yoga may have it's different styles, methods of practice and guruji's to follow. But if the end result is that relaxed connection of body, mind and spirit that everyone talks about then maybe you got it right?
Namaste,
Julie P
2 of 365 in the wonderful land of San Diego
Today was such a chill day.
It started out with a great yoga practice at 9am at a good friends yoga studio up the street that included superb adjustments by Troy http://www.troyoga.com/bio.htm . These adjustments somehow to my amazement allowed my body to work though the stubborn, tight areas that hinder my day to day practice. Thank goodness/Halleluyah for teachers that are proficient at adjustments. Somehow allowing my body & breath to guide me to the unknown areas of where yoga can take you:)
Who knew my head could reach my knee in Ardha Baddha Padma Paschimottanasana (aka " Half bound lotus western intense stretch") or Trianga Mukhaikapada Paschimottanaasana (ok that 's enough crazy talk:)). Thank goodness for teachers that see your potential and push you to that limit.
As Ice Cube would say, " Today was a good day".
Namaste, Julie P
It started out with a great yoga practice at 9am at a good friends yoga studio up the street that included superb adjustments by Troy http://www.troyoga.com/bio.htm . These adjustments somehow to my amazement allowed my body to work though the stubborn, tight areas that hinder my day to day practice. Thank goodness/Halleluyah for teachers that are proficient at adjustments. Somehow allowing my body & breath to guide me to the unknown areas of where yoga can take you:)
Who knew my head could reach my knee in Ardha Baddha Padma Paschimottanasana (aka " Half bound lotus western intense stretch") or Trianga Mukhaikapada Paschimottanaasana (ok that 's enough crazy talk:)). Thank goodness for teachers that see your potential and push you to that limit.
As Ice Cube would say, " Today was a good day".
Namaste, Julie P
Day 1 of 365 in Exploring Yoga
January 1st 2010!!! It is officially the new year. Have you set your goals for 2010?
One of my goals for the next 365 days is to incorporate some aspect of yoga into my daily routine. I plan to use this blog as my unofficial diary allowing me to document how yoga can be incorporated in daily life in a multitude of ways.
Some of you may already know that yoga has found a special place in my hubbie and my life over the past 4 years. It is with this love and admiration of yoga that has lead me to attempt the next 365 days sharing it with family, friends and who ever else it might inspire?
Stay tuned to find out what happens as the days and weeks go by with the love of yoga as my guide:)
Namaste, Julie P
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