Yoga Challenge complete!
The grand finale was an 11am yin class with Cameron. I was fully present for this class, and it was devine.
The grand finale was an 11am yin class with Cameron. I was fully present for this class, and it was devine.
Saturday, 15 February 2014
Thursday, 13 February 2014
Day 39 - Yintastic
Still not feeling very well, but made it to a 7:15pm yin yoga class with Diana.
Interestingly, I've noticed a few trends on my yoga challenge. There were the spurts when I did a ton of Kundalini classes. That was highly energetic and a lot of fun, and the most athletically challenging, as those classes rock it out of you. Then there was the steady stream of early morning yoga classes, when I was totally on my game, rising bright and early. And let's not forget when I started to invite more vinyassa flow into my life, and gained better insight into the teacher style that I prefer in that genre.
And then lately - lots of yin. Nice gentle, barely moving, deep stretching, totally chilled out yin yoga!
It's perfect when you are doing a double header, or not feeling all that great, but truth is it has it's own amazing charm. I especially like yin my body is a little sore, especially from skiing. With that little bit of tenderness, you can really target the fascia and muscle release, and oohhhh yeahhhhhh, it's so good!
Interestingly, I've noticed a few trends on my yoga challenge. There were the spurts when I did a ton of Kundalini classes. That was highly energetic and a lot of fun, and the most athletically challenging, as those classes rock it out of you. Then there was the steady stream of early morning yoga classes, when I was totally on my game, rising bright and early. And let's not forget when I started to invite more vinyassa flow into my life, and gained better insight into the teacher style that I prefer in that genre.
And then lately - lots of yin. Nice gentle, barely moving, deep stretching, totally chilled out yin yoga!
It's perfect when you are doing a double header, or not feeling all that great, but truth is it has it's own amazing charm. I especially like yin my body is a little sore, especially from skiing. With that little bit of tenderness, you can really target the fascia and muscle release, and oohhhh yeahhhhhh, it's so good!
Day 38 - Doing Yoga, for the sake of Doing Yoga
The yoga challenge is quickly coming to a close, so there is no messing around at this point. I need to get my classes in! Hence the double header today, and the reason why I am doing yoga when I am feeling unwell.
I didn't feel very well. Kind of naseous, tired and uneasy. And yet I pulled myself out of my early evening, after work nap, to got my butt to yoga class. This is not ideal, but I can't stop now.
Luckily the yoga on tap was an 8.30pm Yin class with Beverly. I only listened to half of what she suggested, and more or less relaxed with a few stretches.
I am not a fan of doing yoga for the sake of doing yoga. To really get something out it, you have be present, with focus, and desire.
But a yogi on a challenge has to do what she has to do!
I didn't feel very well. Kind of naseous, tired and uneasy. And yet I pulled myself out of my early evening, after work nap, to got my butt to yoga class. This is not ideal, but I can't stop now.
Luckily the yoga on tap was an 8.30pm Yin class with Beverly. I only listened to half of what she suggested, and more or less relaxed with a few stretches.
I am not a fan of doing yoga for the sake of doing yoga. To really get something out it, you have be present, with focus, and desire.
But a yogi on a challenge has to do what she has to do!
Wednesday, 12 February 2014
Day 37 - Back on Track
All my double headers and self-discipline paid off, as I went away for the weekend, fell off the wagon, and yet my yoga challenge is still on track!
After a four day absence, I was back to yoga. This time for a 7am hatha class with Carina.
Once again, I found myself feeling good and meditative in Carina's calm energy. She started the class with a long meditation, and got right into it. The class was challenging, but in a slow long holding sort of way, and it's just right for the early AM.
After a four day absence, I was back to yoga. This time for a 7am hatha class with Carina.
Once again, I found myself feeling good and meditative in Carina's calm energy. She started the class with a long meditation, and got right into it. The class was challenging, but in a slow long holding sort of way, and it's just right for the early AM.
Friday, 7 February 2014
Day 36 - Nooner
I worked from home today, which enabled me to take a Friday nooner class.
12 noon hatha yoga with Colin. He taught a New Year's Day class on January 1st, which was just awesome. Super positive and energizing. I've been looking forward to having a class with him ever since. And again, he did a few things that stood out. He had everyone sit close together at the start of class, and read a short passage from a wellness book that he is writing. Then he took us through a fairly vigorous flow, with funky twists and leg raising actions.
The most amazing part of class was at the very end, when he had us do three back bends. I started off with bridge. Then, without thinking about it too much, I went into full wheel, and held my whole outer body really high. For me, this may be the pinnacle of asanas. The strength and the incredible, deep stretch across the tightness of my chest, shoulders and arms is exhilarating and frightening at the same time. I often doubt my ability to hold it, so I either don't go in very far, or I collapse early.
But not this time. I raised my body high, my arms stretched straighter than they normally do, with my chest raised bravely into the sky, my pelvis and and hips thrust high into the air, and my thighs stretched long with solid strength. And I held it. And held it. It felt amazing! And then I did it again.
Wheel is a grand pose. When I come out of wheel, my entire body is buzzing. I actually feel high. It's incredible.
My hesitancy to go into wheel means that I often do bridge instead. But I can see that with consistent practice, the postures are building my strength and confidence so that I can do these grand poses with ease. Bridge, camel, and twists - these asanas work to open my front body, which helps me build up to a strong for wheel. This can only get better.
I am also feeling a shift with crow. I've been holding it a bit longer. Just a few seconds more, but it's a little more forward, I am starting to feel the balance.
Hmmm, this is making me think... I wonder what I could master if I really stick to it? I am not just talking about yoga!
12 noon hatha yoga with Colin. He taught a New Year's Day class on January 1st, which was just awesome. Super positive and energizing. I've been looking forward to having a class with him ever since. And again, he did a few things that stood out. He had everyone sit close together at the start of class, and read a short passage from a wellness book that he is writing. Then he took us through a fairly vigorous flow, with funky twists and leg raising actions.
The most amazing part of class was at the very end, when he had us do three back bends. I started off with bridge. Then, without thinking about it too much, I went into full wheel, and held my whole outer body really high. For me, this may be the pinnacle of asanas. The strength and the incredible, deep stretch across the tightness of my chest, shoulders and arms is exhilarating and frightening at the same time. I often doubt my ability to hold it, so I either don't go in very far, or I collapse early.
But not this time. I raised my body high, my arms stretched straighter than they normally do, with my chest raised bravely into the sky, my pelvis and and hips thrust high into the air, and my thighs stretched long with solid strength. And I held it. And held it. It felt amazing! And then I did it again.
Wheel is a grand pose. When I come out of wheel, my entire body is buzzing. I actually feel high. It's incredible.
My hesitancy to go into wheel means that I often do bridge instead. But I can see that with consistent practice, the postures are building my strength and confidence so that I can do these grand poses with ease. Bridge, camel, and twists - these asanas work to open my front body, which helps me build up to a strong for wheel. This can only get better.I am also feeling a shift with crow. I've been holding it a bit longer. Just a few seconds more, but it's a little more forward, I am starting to feel the balance.
Hmmm, this is making me think... I wonder what I could master if I really stick to it? I am not just talking about yoga!
Thursday, 6 February 2014
Day 35 - The Flow
6:15am vinyassa flow with Sara.
Yup, I am definitely getting into a flow with early morning yoga.
Damn it feels good!
Wednesday, 5 February 2014
Day 34 - Not Fully There
I did another double header today, this time with a 8:30pm yin class with Beverly.
My mind wasn't fully there tonight, I couldn't quite let myself go, and fully relax into the stretch. Perhaps I am rushing too much. I sometimes feel like I am doing yoga just to fill in the challenge days, even though I have other things I want and need to do. Especially when it's two classes in one day. The self discipline of this challenge is great, because I am doing yoga when I wouldn't otherwise be doing it. It is cultivating a habit. But getting there sometimes feels forced.
I have less than a week to go with the challenge. And I must say, it has been AMAZING! When this is done, I will keep up with a strong, committed yoga practice.
But I look forward to balancing yoga with other pursuits. Like another one of my fitness loves - running!
Running is next on the plate, with a sub two hour half marathon to take on in June. And I'd LOVE to nail my sub 50 minute 10km goal.
I love how yoga and running make my body feel. They go together like butter on a warm biscuit!
My mind wasn't fully there tonight, I couldn't quite let myself go, and fully relax into the stretch. Perhaps I am rushing too much. I sometimes feel like I am doing yoga just to fill in the challenge days, even though I have other things I want and need to do. Especially when it's two classes in one day. The self discipline of this challenge is great, because I am doing yoga when I wouldn't otherwise be doing it. It is cultivating a habit. But getting there sometimes feels forced.
I have less than a week to go with the challenge. And I must say, it has been AMAZING! When this is done, I will keep up with a strong, committed yoga practice.But I look forward to balancing yoga with other pursuits. Like another one of my fitness loves - running!
Running is next on the plate, with a sub two hour half marathon to take on in June. And I'd LOVE to nail my sub 50 minute 10km goal.
I love how yoga and running make my body feel. They go together like butter on a warm biscuit!
Day 33 - Just Breath
6:15am vinyasa flow with Tianne.
Would you believe that I've actually learned to breath better?!
Over the past week or so, I've discovered a way to breath that allows me to inhale a bit longer. In yoga we often do "uji" breathing - while breathing through your nose and through a constricted throat, and making darth vadder sounds. I do this regularly, but I've always been frustrated by my shallow inhale. I can exhale for a long count, but the inhale always stops short.
Well I have since noticed that if I consciously direct my inhale low, towards my throat rather than up towards my nose, I can inhale for at least a couple of counts longer. Awesome!
Would you believe that I've actually learned to breath better?! Over the past week or so, I've discovered a way to breath that allows me to inhale a bit longer. In yoga we often do "uji" breathing - while breathing through your nose and through a constricted throat, and making darth vadder sounds. I do this regularly, but I've always been frustrated by my shallow inhale. I can exhale for a long count, but the inhale always stops short.
Well I have since noticed that if I consciously direct my inhale low, towards my throat rather than up towards my nose, I can inhale for at least a couple of counts longer. Awesome!
Tuesday, 4 February 2014
Day 32 - Rise and shine
7am hatha yoga with Janet. Bright and early.
Yawn, get up and go.
Rush and arrive.
Settle and let go.
Invigorate and breath.
Good morning!
Monday, 3 February 2014
Day 31 - May All Beings Be Free
I've only taken a few classes with Tina, but a friend of mine thinks that she is the best. I agree, she's very good. She's not afraid to be be a little different, with her little Indian music box and having the class sing and chant sanskrit mantras. She also spoke a lot about being kind to ourselves and one another, and respecting animals. I appreciated her positivity.
She taught a fairly vigorous class, and my body went through the motions, but my mind wasn't fully present. Not sure why, perhaps because I rushed to class and wasn't fully settled, or maybe it's problems with work or a general feeling of discontent that is weighing me down. Whatever it may be, I am sure that the mood was lessened somewhat, just by showing up to yoga.
Day 30 - Yin My Mind
I was feeling a little indecisive and anxious today, so a yin class is just what the head shrink ordered. This was my second class of the day, to put an advance in the 40 day challenge bank.
Class was 6pm yin with Bernie, a very popular teacher in the city (I remember him from back in the day at Prana Yoga Studio).
There must've been 125+ students in the class, even though it coincided with the big Superbowl game. It seems that a lot of yogis aren't into football!
There weren't enough props to go around, but Bernie lulled us into such a deep relaxation that it really didn't matter.
The little micro naps that I fall into during shavasana are incredible. My mind gentle floats in a dreamlike state, yet I am still somewhat conscious to my surroundings. Just hanging on the edge, one thought in the waking world, another in the dream realm.
Class was 6pm yin with Bernie, a very popular teacher in the city (I remember him from back in the day at Prana Yoga Studio).
There must've been 125+ students in the class, even though it coincided with the big Superbowl game. It seems that a lot of yogis aren't into football!
There weren't enough props to go around, but Bernie lulled us into such a deep relaxation that it really didn't matter.
The little micro naps that I fall into during shavasana are incredible. My mind gentle floats in a dreamlike state, yet I am still somewhat conscious to my surroundings. Just hanging on the edge, one thought in the waking world, another in the dream realm.
Sunday, 2 February 2014
Day 29 - Saucha
9:30am vinyassa flow this morning, with Yeva. What an awesome class! Yeva is one of Dana's favourite teachers, and I have to agree - she's top notch.
What are the important ingredients that makes a yoga teacher not just good, but great?
Well, I think it's a few things, beyond having a commanding voice, and being knowledgeable about the postures and proper allignment. The class needs to be fresh and interesting. Teachers who rotate through an uninspired flow bore me to tears. Be creative, keep me guessing. Let me turn off my mind, and enjoy the guidance of movement from one side of my body to the next. But don't be rushing! If we are just rushing from one asana to the next, the mindfulness is lost. I like it when we dig deep, to feel the tone, twist or stretch from the inside out. I also appreciate it when a teacher focuses on all or most of the basics - pranayama, asanas, twists, inversions and balance. Show me something new, a different flow, or a variation of a classic. And I love it when the teacher sets a theme for the class, whether it's a feeling, a jewel of wisdom, an intention, or a story.
Yeva touched on most of these elements today. We did some interesting work with a block between our thighs to bring mindfulness to an inward spiral. We also did some shoulder and chest opening exercises with a strap. Plus many chataranga, twists, groin stretches, planks, and more.
Yeva especially had a nice theme. She talked about SAUCHA, which means purity, or cleanliness. Yeva encouraged us to practice saucha, by clearing the clutter from our homes and our minds, as a path to better balance.
The first of the Niyamas is Saucha - the pursuit of purity or cleanliness of physical space, body, and mind.
For our physical space, it's important to have order. At home, everything should have a place, and be free of excessive clutter. This facilitates calmness and ease. This can be a bit of a struggle for me, but I've made great strides over the past many months. I've rearranged my furniture for better feng shui, re-organized my closets and drawers for improved organization, developed new systems for paperwork, and I am clearing the clutter of excessive belongings. The freedom that follows from this is astounding. To no longer search, to not miss a deadline, to not be late, and to be prepared in advance is an enormous boost, not only to my self-esteem, but also for the manner in which others perceive me. It helps to remove unnecessary stress, so that I can focus on what really counts.
For our bodies, we need nourishment with healthy food, plentiful water, and abstinence or moderation from toxins that hinder good health and clarity of mind. I am fairly good in this department, but still have plenty of room for improvement. I feel good that I made a choice nearly twenty years ago to abstain from eating meat. My diet is low fat, with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, and I cook wholesome foods often at home. I've also gained insight from avoiding alcohol and marijuana over the past month. I am not opposed to these substances, but with the clarity of mind and ease of energetic spirit, I've come to better realize that less is more, and none is often best.
For our minds, we need to avoid polluting our thoughts with negativity, and avoid emotionally charged obsessions. We need to consciously avoid unwarranted criticism about ourselves and others, as well as thoughts of shame or unworthiness. These negative emotions have no place in a healthy, pure mind. Our minds should be filled with positive and calming thoughts. This is something we have the power to control from within. Saucha of the mind is where I need to focus the most. Sometimes my thoughts are pure, but sometimes I am troubled.Here are the five Niyamas - I will strive to learn and practice more:
1. Saucha – Purity, both inside and out. It means we keep our bodies clean, we practice asana and pranayama to clean the insides of our bodies, and we practice meditation to cleanse the mind of it’s disturbing emotions like hate, greed, delusion and pride.2. Santosa – Contentment. Simply being happy with what we do have, rather than being happy about what we don’t happy. Being happy in child rather than unhappy we can’t do wheel
3. Tapas – Disciplined use of our energy.
4. Svadhyaya – Self study, cultivating self-reflective consciousness so that we can truly see who we are – shadow and light.
5. Isvarapranidhana - Celebration of the Spiritual, laying all our actions at the feet of God. Surrendering to Divine Will.
Friday, 31 January 2014
Day 28 - Snapsana!
Friday morning, 6:15AM on the mat! Time to snap to it!
Wesley was the teacher, and I must say, I appreciate his fresh approach.
For starters, all the mats were placed in a different configuration. Rather than the typical rows facing the teacher, he had them all spiralling out from the center. Subtle change, big difference.
He also had us start off with breathing exercises taken from Qui Chong. It was a great way to start the class. Nice and peaceful and centering. Years ago, in the late 90's early 2000's, when I practiced at Prana Yoga studio under Ifat (aka Shakti), there was a heavy emphasis on pranayama, or cleansing breaths. It's a good way to begin.
What I like most about Wesley is that he's fun spirited. For part of the class, once he got us into some awkward pose that was challenging to hold, he introduced SNAPSANA - and snapped our fingers to the beat of his 80's music music. Just can't help but to smile in this pose!
Wesley was the teacher, and I must say, I appreciate his fresh approach.
For starters, all the mats were placed in a different configuration. Rather than the typical rows facing the teacher, he had them all spiralling out from the center. Subtle change, big difference.
He also had us start off with breathing exercises taken from Qui Chong. It was a great way to start the class. Nice and peaceful and centering. Years ago, in the late 90's early 2000's, when I practiced at Prana Yoga studio under Ifat (aka Shakti), there was a heavy emphasis on pranayama, or cleansing breaths. It's a good way to begin. What I like most about Wesley is that he's fun spirited. For part of the class, once he got us into some awkward pose that was challenging to hold, he introduced SNAPSANA - and snapped our fingers to the beat of his 80's music music. Just can't help but to smile in this pose!
Thursday, 30 January 2014
Day 27 - The New Me: Morning Person
I've been going to morning yoga for some time now, but it goes in spurts - usually when I am really on top of my game. But rewind ten years - the idea would've been unfathomable!
So there you go - people can change!
Whatever is going on with me lately, it is working out well. I don't seem to need a lot of sleep, and waking up in the morning comes with ease. I usually stir before my alarm, and even though I am not particularly going to bed early. I betcha it's because I am staying clear of intoxicants. Take note, wise self!
Today's class was a 6:15am vinyassa flow with Sarah. I took a class with Sarah last weekend and thought it was fantastic, but today's class was just okay. Heavy emphasis on sun salutations, over and over and over again, and without a whole lot of variation. Eventually we got through them, and then moved onto Triangle, some twists, and other interesting things. I always like it when we get past the repetitive fast flow, when the teacher can express her creativity and get deep with the poses.
Dana was with me at class today, which was nice. I like having her alongside of me for this daily challenge, it's good for moral support.
So there you go - people can change!
Whatever is going on with me lately, it is working out well. I don't seem to need a lot of sleep, and waking up in the morning comes with ease. I usually stir before my alarm, and even though I am not particularly going to bed early. I betcha it's because I am staying clear of intoxicants. Take note, wise self!
Today's class was a 6:15am vinyassa flow with Sarah. I took a class with Sarah last weekend and thought it was fantastic, but today's class was just okay. Heavy emphasis on sun salutations, over and over and over again, and without a whole lot of variation. Eventually we got through them, and then moved onto Triangle, some twists, and other interesting things. I always like it when we get past the repetitive fast flow, when the teacher can express her creativity and get deep with the poses.
Dana was with me at class today, which was nice. I like having her alongside of me for this daily challenge, it's good for moral support.
Wednesday, 29 January 2014
Day 26 - Kumbuko
7am hatha yoga with Carina. She carries herself with a calm spirit, and that quality prevails in her class. It's very nice.
We started the class in seated meditation. For quite some time too, it wasn't a token break for sitting still. I found myself feeling very relaxed, and focussed on my breath rather than runaway thoughts. It felt great.
The asanas were slow moving and deliberate, and it was challenging because we held the poses with strength for a very long time. Although some may think that a fast vinyassa flow is a more athletic style of yoga, I disagree. Holding a deep posture takes a lot of muscle intensity, and you aren't rushing through one thing to the next, which often leads to missing the point.
As we gently flowed through the movements with our breath, Carina encouraged us to pause in the stillness. Kumbuko, she said, a sanskrit word for pause. Our arms would float up as we inhaled, hands joining overhead as we momentarily held our breath - Kumboko - and then arms float down as we exhaled.
In Kumboko, or in the pause, is where we can find deeper understanding. With everything we do, with every decision we make, we should invite Kumbuko into our conscious thought, and only then move forward.
We started the class in seated meditation. For quite some time too, it wasn't a token break for sitting still. I found myself feeling very relaxed, and focussed on my breath rather than runaway thoughts. It felt great.
The asanas were slow moving and deliberate, and it was challenging because we held the poses with strength for a very long time. Although some may think that a fast vinyassa flow is a more athletic style of yoga, I disagree. Holding a deep posture takes a lot of muscle intensity, and you aren't rushing through one thing to the next, which often leads to missing the point.
As we gently flowed through the movements with our breath, Carina encouraged us to pause in the stillness. Kumbuko, she said, a sanskrit word for pause. Our arms would float up as we inhaled, hands joining overhead as we momentarily held our breath - Kumboko - and then arms float down as we exhaled.
In Kumboko, or in the pause, is where we can find deeper understanding. With everything we do, with every decision we make, we should invite Kumbuko into our conscious thought, and only then move forward.
Tuesday, 28 January 2014
Day 25 - Early Bird Catches the Worm
Janet's style, or at least her morning class, is all about stretch and tone, with little to no flow. It's really nice for the early morning. Nice and gentle and stimulating. Energizing and positive.
I sure do enjoy going to yoga in the morning. It wakes up the body and sets a great feeling for the day. It's also a treat to leave the evenings for free time. It really is something that I should keep up.
Day 24 - Mindful Moderation
Today's class was 7:30pm kundalini with Gloria. Dana and I were in the class together.
SQUAT COUNT - 94!!
It was a good class, but I have to admit, I wasn't fully into it tonight. My mind was brewing over with couple of situations that I am experiencing, which kept me from being fully present. But regardless, I was present on the mat, which is at least part way there.
This yoga challenge is all about self-discipline. It takes commitment to prioritize yoga each and every day of my busy life. Given that I've done this once before, and given that it's the start of a new year, I decided that this time I would to take the challenge one step further, in effort to transform myself into an absolutely amazing person. No problem, right?!
To obtain this lofty goal, I've chosen a path of wellness. I've been trying to drop bad habits, and pick up good habits. The list ranges from getting more sleep, eating more veggies and fruit, cooking wholesome food more often, getting to & departing from work earlier, making new friends, reaching out to old friends, being creative with art, reading more books, taking time for reflection, etc., etc, etc.! And, dropping alcohol.
So for the past three weeks (and counting), I haven't had any booze. As a social drinker who enjoys wine and occasionally over-indulges, the goal is to simply avoid alcohol during the 40 days, rather than to quit altogether. It's a chance for me to gain awareness about alcohol's subtle yet significant effect. That glass of wine on Tuesday night, which doesn't register, yet makes it slightly more difficult to wake up the next day. And weekend mornings with absolutely no residue of indulgence from the night before.
It hasn't been difficult, and it does feel good. I am not sure if it's that, the yoga, or other things, but I do feel more energetic. Waking up in the morning is much easier. Plus I am saving calories and money. All good things.
But not so good too. Like it or not, alcohol is seriously imbedded in our culture. It's a social lubricant, a facilitator, and an excuse. When friends get together, drinks are often shared, and it can be a lot of fun. Take for instance Saturday, when I was out to celebrate a good friend's upcoming wedding. She ordered a bottle of bubbly for everyone to enjoy, which posed me with a quandry. Do I stick to my commitment and miss out in the celebratory toast, or do I just go for it an enjoy the moment? As a compromise, I asked for my champagne flute to be filled with just a sip of bubbles, and the rest with OJ. That worked, but it was a little awkward.
Truth of the matter is that I want to take part in these celebrations. I want to be social. And I do enjoy wine! So why not?! The world is not black and white. Some is often better than none. My exercise in self-discipline has demonstrated that flexibility and comfort in the grey zone is often a better way to be.
So for the rest of this challenge (and beyond, for all the habits I am cultivating), rather than utter and complete abstinence, I will practice "Mindful Moderation". This is more realistic. Smart choices, with flexibility. A balanced and sustainable approach indeed.
SQUAT COUNT - 94!!
It was a good class, but I have to admit, I wasn't fully into it tonight. My mind was brewing over with couple of situations that I am experiencing, which kept me from being fully present. But regardless, I was present on the mat, which is at least part way there.
This yoga challenge is all about self-discipline. It takes commitment to prioritize yoga each and every day of my busy life. Given that I've done this once before, and given that it's the start of a new year, I decided that this time I would to take the challenge one step further, in effort to transform myself into an absolutely amazing person. No problem, right?!
To obtain this lofty goal, I've chosen a path of wellness. I've been trying to drop bad habits, and pick up good habits. The list ranges from getting more sleep, eating more veggies and fruit, cooking wholesome food more often, getting to & departing from work earlier, making new friends, reaching out to old friends, being creative with art, reading more books, taking time for reflection, etc., etc, etc.! And, dropping alcohol.
So for the past three weeks (and counting), I haven't had any booze. As a social drinker who enjoys wine and occasionally over-indulges, the goal is to simply avoid alcohol during the 40 days, rather than to quit altogether. It's a chance for me to gain awareness about alcohol's subtle yet significant effect. That glass of wine on Tuesday night, which doesn't register, yet makes it slightly more difficult to wake up the next day. And weekend mornings with absolutely no residue of indulgence from the night before.
It hasn't been difficult, and it does feel good. I am not sure if it's that, the yoga, or other things, but I do feel more energetic. Waking up in the morning is much easier. Plus I am saving calories and money. All good things.
But not so good too. Like it or not, alcohol is seriously imbedded in our culture. It's a social lubricant, a facilitator, and an excuse. When friends get together, drinks are often shared, and it can be a lot of fun. Take for instance Saturday, when I was out to celebrate a good friend's upcoming wedding. She ordered a bottle of bubbly for everyone to enjoy, which posed me with a quandry. Do I stick to my commitment and miss out in the celebratory toast, or do I just go for it an enjoy the moment? As a compromise, I asked for my champagne flute to be filled with just a sip of bubbles, and the rest with OJ. That worked, but it was a little awkward.
So for the rest of this challenge (and beyond, for all the habits I am cultivating), rather than utter and complete abstinence, I will practice "Mindful Moderation". This is more realistic. Smart choices, with flexibility. A balanced and sustainable approach indeed.
Sunday, 26 January 2014
Day 23 - Conquering the Crow (one day)
Today's class was a 4pm vinyassa flow, with Emily, and my first time in her class.
Vinyassa flow classes aren't so different from hatha based flow clases. Overall, in a hatha flow you tend to hold the poses a bit longer for a deeper stretch (which I love), whereas in a vinyassa flow, you tend to go quicker, do more chatarangas, and handstands often arise.
Handstands, Schmedstands!
That's how I feel about them. I can't do them, and not sure I will ever be able to. Even if I am capable, I just don't see it happening in a class of 50+ people, with little instruction. Plus it's way too scary to throw your legs straight to the air without a spotter. So when the teacher breaks the flow and takes time out for handstand, it always annoys me. I don't think it's safe, and it's not practical.
I am sure I'd feel much different about handstands if I was one of the yogi show-offs. If that was me, I would pop my legs up, and be all still and stiff and zen like. Oh I do wish that was me!
I suppose it is possible, but only with a ton of practice, and I think a few workshops to learn the technique with a spotter. But first things first, I need to gain more strength in my arms, shoulders and core. Getting into Handstand, and keeping yourself in check, requires a lot of muscle control.
So never mind Handstand. Or Headstand. Or any other crazy ass arm balances.
Before I take those on, I have something else to conquer - THE CROW!
Damn that crow! My true yoga nemesis. I've been trying to master the crow for years! I can get myself into position, I can feel it, but as soon as my second toe lifts the ground, I waver. I think I am strong enough, but apparently not. Maybe it has something to do with my center of gravity?! Or maybe it's a deep seeded fear, because of that fall I once took from crow, landing straight on the bridge of my nose (ouch!), leaving a red carpet burn sore?! (yup, wasn't that lovely!).
I don't know what it is, but one day I'll nail it!
Vinyassa flow classes aren't so different from hatha based flow clases. Overall, in a hatha flow you tend to hold the poses a bit longer for a deeper stretch (which I love), whereas in a vinyassa flow, you tend to go quicker, do more chatarangas, and handstands often arise.
Handstands, Schmedstands!
That's how I feel about them. I can't do them, and not sure I will ever be able to. Even if I am capable, I just don't see it happening in a class of 50+ people, with little instruction. Plus it's way too scary to throw your legs straight to the air without a spotter. So when the teacher breaks the flow and takes time out for handstand, it always annoys me. I don't think it's safe, and it's not practical.
I am sure I'd feel much different about handstands if I was one of the yogi show-offs. If that was me, I would pop my legs up, and be all still and stiff and zen like. Oh I do wish that was me!
I suppose it is possible, but only with a ton of practice, and I think a few workshops to learn the technique with a spotter. But first things first, I need to gain more strength in my arms, shoulders and core. Getting into Handstand, and keeping yourself in check, requires a lot of muscle control.
So never mind Handstand. Or Headstand. Or any other crazy ass arm balances.
Before I take those on, I have something else to conquer - THE CROW!
Damn that crow! My true yoga nemesis. I've been trying to master the crow for years! I can get myself into position, I can feel it, but as soon as my second toe lifts the ground, I waver. I think I am strong enough, but apparently not. Maybe it has something to do with my center of gravity?! Or maybe it's a deep seeded fear, because of that fall I once took from crow, landing straight on the bridge of my nose (ouch!), leaving a red carpet burn sore?! (yup, wasn't that lovely!).
I don't know what it is, but one day I'll nail it!
Day 22 - Ramp it Up!
Day 22 is actually Class 22. This class is a Saturday Doubleheader, following the early AM class that I took this morning. Dana was there with me too.
We took a vinyassa flow class, and the teacher was Sarah C. She's very good! She has a beautiful commanding voice (a key ingredient for a yoga teacher), and taught an interesting flow. I appreciated her creativity, because sometimes vinyassa flow teachers can be overly reliant on basic sun salutations, rushing through them over and over and over again, which can be boring.
Sarah did some interesting poses that felt great. We did a bunch of forward folds with our legs wide spread. That's one of my faves.
She also had us stand on one foot, holding our large toe on the opposite side, and then lifting that leg straight out, and then to the side. I can do this, but not too long ago I felt like it was out of my range of possibilities. Funny, I wonder what shifted in my mind or body to make it happen? Our ability to change with yoga postures is incremental, but it does eventually happen. There are many asanas I used to struggle with (camel, hero, tree...), that I can now do with ease. And yet there are many more that I still need to master!
There was an older man who sang alongside of Sarah for her opening sanskrit mantra. He knew all the words and sang with confidence, which signaled that he is a devoted yogi. And that he was! He did some crazy advanced moves, requiring immense flexibility and strength, variations that I've never seen before. He was in his mid to late 50's or so, but his torso and core were that of a much younger man.
Might yoga be the fountain of youth?! It may very well be, if coupled with the yogi diet and lifestyle. Most importantly, yoga helps to keep stress at bay, which will otherwise whittle us down with misery. It also keeps the physical body toned and flexible, and it helps with balance.
I will be aging gracefully with yoga.
We took a vinyassa flow class, and the teacher was Sarah C. She's very good! She has a beautiful commanding voice (a key ingredient for a yoga teacher), and taught an interesting flow. I appreciated her creativity, because sometimes vinyassa flow teachers can be overly reliant on basic sun salutations, rushing through them over and over and over again, which can be boring.
Sarah did some interesting poses that felt great. We did a bunch of forward folds with our legs wide spread. That's one of my faves.
She also had us stand on one foot, holding our large toe on the opposite side, and then lifting that leg straight out, and then to the side. I can do this, but not too long ago I felt like it was out of my range of possibilities. Funny, I wonder what shifted in my mind or body to make it happen? Our ability to change with yoga postures is incremental, but it does eventually happen. There are many asanas I used to struggle with (camel, hero, tree...), that I can now do with ease. And yet there are many more that I still need to master!
There was an older man who sang alongside of Sarah for her opening sanskrit mantra. He knew all the words and sang with confidence, which signaled that he is a devoted yogi. And that he was! He did some crazy advanced moves, requiring immense flexibility and strength, variations that I've never seen before. He was in his mid to late 50's or so, but his torso and core were that of a much younger man. Might yoga be the fountain of youth?! It may very well be, if coupled with the yogi diet and lifestyle. Most importantly, yoga helps to keep stress at bay, which will otherwise whittle us down with misery. It also keeps the physical body toned and flexible, and it helps with balance.
I will be aging gracefully with yoga.
Saturday, 25 January 2014
Day 21 - Morning Cup of Goodness
Nothing says good health like an 8am weekend yoga class!
Yup, that's me! Making healthy choices, getting to bed at a decent hour on Friday night, and on the mat for the first class of the day. Feels good.
Beverly was teaching hatha at Granville Island. It was daylight when I arrived, but once we got started, the sun rose in the sky, and beamed rays right across my yoga mat. Ahhhh, so nice!
Yup, that's me! Making healthy choices, getting to bed at a decent hour on Friday night, and on the mat for the first class of the day. Feels good.
Beverly was teaching hatha at Granville Island. It was daylight when I arrived, but once we got started, the sun rose in the sky, and beamed rays right across my yoga mat. Ahhhh, so nice!
Friday, 24 January 2014
Day 20 - Stress Buster!
That's the nice thing about this Yoga Challenge - it's making me committed to the practice. Otherwise, I would've skipped you and stayed at work late to get things done (...even though the work will never be finished!). This is a nice healthy change. My commitment to yoga is helping me to find a better life/work balance. I'll have to keep this up after the challenge is done.
Tony was the teacher for 6pm Hatha. First time I've taken a class with him, and it was a good class.
It was a really nice come down from work. The breathing exercises, postures and meditiative flow helped my mind to transition from work to evening, and it was a nice way to start the weekend.
Day 19 - Nearly Halfway There!
Tonight's 8:45pm class was a special celebration, to mark the (nearly) halfway mark. It was an "All Styles" class, taught by four teachers who each took a turn featuring a different yoga style - Yin, Hatha, Vinyassa Flow, and Kundalini. A very cool approach!
I am getting stronger. I am usually pretty lame at doing push ups, but this evening I noticed that my push ups are solid. My arms and shoulders are gaining strength. It's nice to see impact.
It was great to take the class with others who are part of the 40 Day Challenge. I hope that everyone is getting something out of their self commitment journey.
As I near the halfway point and my yoga challenge starts to wane, I am happy to say that I am feeling full of determination. I feel energetic and strong, and committed to the goals that I've set. I am staying true to my heart.
I am getting stronger. I am usually pretty lame at doing push ups, but this evening I noticed that my push ups are solid. My arms and shoulders are gaining strength. It's nice to see impact.
It was great to take the class with others who are part of the 40 Day Challenge. I hope that everyone is getting something out of their self commitment journey.
As I near the halfway point and my yoga challenge starts to wane, I am happy to say that I am feeling full of determination. I feel energetic and strong, and committed to the goals that I've set. I am staying true to my heart.
Thursday, 23 January 2014
Day 18 - Synchronicity
I've noticed that I am enjoying synchronicity in my life these days.
You know how it is, when something magically shows up, just when you need it? Or your favourite number starts to appears often, such as the number of the only available parking lot stall? Or you learn about some obscure fact, and then oddly, it pops up again in other conversations? These little but significant occurrences seem to be happening for me more frequently these days.
Whenever I notice synchronicity in my life, I feel in synch with the universe, and know that things are going my way. It's a good feeling.
Might it be the yoga, opening up pathways that are intangible to human understanding?!
Maybe!
Well, todays' class was very nice. 7am hatha with Carina, and my second class with her. She started off in seated meditation for quite some time. In the past I've felt annoyed with teachers who leave us sitting quietly in a dark room at the crack of dawn (I didn't wake up early just to sit around!!), but this time I really enjoyed it. My mind felt fully aware, and I focused on my breath.
The class wasn't overly difficult (just right for the AM), but we did a lunge series that was exerting, along with some long held-planks and pelvis lifts. Good morning muscles!
Carina also shared a tip that I'll have to remember. She talked about balance being a "use it or lose it" thing. As we age, balancing postures become even more important. She challenged us to stand on one foot when we brush our teeth. And to exercise both our balance AND our brain, to stand on one foot and use the toothbrush with the opposite hand. I'll have to give that a try!
You know how it is, when something magically shows up, just when you need it? Or your favourite number starts to appears often, such as the number of the only available parking lot stall? Or you learn about some obscure fact, and then oddly, it pops up again in other conversations? These little but significant occurrences seem to be happening for me more frequently these days.
Whenever I notice synchronicity in my life, I feel in synch with the universe, and know that things are going my way. It's a good feeling.
Might it be the yoga, opening up pathways that are intangible to human understanding?!
Maybe!
Well, todays' class was very nice. 7am hatha with Carina, and my second class with her. She started off in seated meditation for quite some time. In the past I've felt annoyed with teachers who leave us sitting quietly in a dark room at the crack of dawn (I didn't wake up early just to sit around!!), but this time I really enjoyed it. My mind felt fully aware, and I focused on my breath.
The class wasn't overly difficult (just right for the AM), but we did a lunge series that was exerting, along with some long held-planks and pelvis lifts. Good morning muscles!
Carina also shared a tip that I'll have to remember. She talked about balance being a "use it or lose it" thing. As we age, balancing postures become even more important. She challenged us to stand on one foot when we brush our teeth. And to exercise both our balance AND our brain, to stand on one foot and use the toothbrush with the opposite hand. I'll have to give that a try!
Tuesday, 21 January 2014
Day 17 - OJ Refreshment
Early morning 7am yoga with Janet. It was just what I needed!
Same goes for Dana - she was there with me too.
Janet led us through a "wake up sleepy head - the early bird catches the worm!" sequence.
We started at the tips of our toes, moved all the up to the top of our forehead, and extended out to the tips of our fingers. We accessed all of our muscles with a gentle squeeze, stimulating the body with overall tone to prepare for the day.
It was so refreshing! Just like a tall glass of freshly squeezed orange juice!
Monday, 20 January 2014
Day 16 - You Sexy Thing!
Monday night Kundalini!! Dana and I went to the class together, which was fun.
SQUAT COUNT - 75!
Maybe that is. My mind was wandering, and I had a hard time keeping count. But it must've been at least 75, probably a hell of a lot more! The class was much of the same routine (and yet it is always different and fresh - Gloria keeps it interesting). Basically, we exerted ourselves to the max, did some mantra chanting, and had some fun dancing,
Best part of the class is when Hot Chocolate's "You Sexy Thing" was played. The 100+ of us walked around the room in a big circle, strutting our stuff. Soooo fun and light-spirited! Following that we did some free form belly dancing. Good times!
As per usual, I left the class in better spirits than when I arrived. :)
SQUAT COUNT - 75!
Maybe that is. My mind was wandering, and I had a hard time keeping count. But it must've been at least 75, probably a hell of a lot more! The class was much of the same routine (and yet it is always different and fresh - Gloria keeps it interesting). Basically, we exerted ourselves to the max, did some mantra chanting, and had some fun dancing,
Best part of the class is when Hot Chocolate's "You Sexy Thing" was played. The 100+ of us walked around the room in a big circle, strutting our stuff. Soooo fun and light-spirited! Following that we did some free form belly dancing. Good times!
As per usual, I left the class in better spirits than when I arrived. :)
Sunday, 19 January 2014
Day 15 - Yoga by the Sea
Today's yoga was a 11am hatha class with Dan, at the Granville Island location.
Joining me was my friend Andrea. I really admire her, she is 7+ months pregnant, still limber and energetic despite carrying a basketball belly, and still keeping up with her yoga practice. Being a yogi, she is intuitive to her body, and she made adjustments as necessary.
It was nice to be side by side, sharing the beautiful practice and meditative experience with her soon-to-be born baby!
The Granville Island location is really nice. The windows overlook False Creek, with a great view of the ocean, mountains and downtown cityscape. It was a beautiful sunny day, and our yoga mats were situated exactly where a kitty cat would choose to lounge, with glorious rays of sunshine shining down on us.
Dan teaches a flow based practice, with a good measure of stretch. He has a commanding voice, and puts on a good class.
As I looked around the class, I took note of the wide range of students. There were the young and the old. The skinny and the plump. Experienced yogis and beginners. Men and women. It's nice to have that diversity. I appreciate that my yoga centre isn't just for skinny young dancer types, which you might often expect from a yoga studio.
I also noticed a girl wearing see-thru yoga pants. I saw this when her butt was in air, with her legs wrapped by her ears. Ewww! Didn't she read the news stories about Lululemon's defective yoga pants?! Why hasn't she gone into the store to ask for a refund?! Is she even aware?! Should I say anything?! Nah...best to let it be, we are responsible for our own clothing!
Following yoga class, Andrea and I went to the Market, where we had lunch, and then shopped for veggies. What a treat! I should really make weekend yoga at Granville Island part of my weekend routine.
Joining me was my friend Andrea. I really admire her, she is 7+ months pregnant, still limber and energetic despite carrying a basketball belly, and still keeping up with her yoga practice. Being a yogi, she is intuitive to her body, and she made adjustments as necessary.
It was nice to be side by side, sharing the beautiful practice and meditative experience with her soon-to-be born baby!
The Granville Island location is really nice. The windows overlook False Creek, with a great view of the ocean, mountains and downtown cityscape. It was a beautiful sunny day, and our yoga mats were situated exactly where a kitty cat would choose to lounge, with glorious rays of sunshine shining down on us.
Dan teaches a flow based practice, with a good measure of stretch. He has a commanding voice, and puts on a good class.
As I looked around the class, I took note of the wide range of students. There were the young and the old. The skinny and the plump. Experienced yogis and beginners. Men and women. It's nice to have that diversity. I appreciate that my yoga centre isn't just for skinny young dancer types, which you might often expect from a yoga studio.
I also noticed a girl wearing see-thru yoga pants. I saw this when her butt was in air, with her legs wrapped by her ears. Ewww! Didn't she read the news stories about Lululemon's defective yoga pants?! Why hasn't she gone into the store to ask for a refund?! Is she even aware?! Should I say anything?! Nah...best to let it be, we are responsible for our own clothing!
Saturday, 18 January 2014
Day 14 - Double Header
I did a double header today, to put a yoga class in the bank. The true 40 Day Challenge is to do a yoga class every day for 40 days - however - it's also acceptable to do 40 classes within 40 days. So double headers can make that happen. It's nice to have the flexibility, as I'll be away for a ski trip in a couple of weeks.
Given that I did a class in the morning, I chose to do a gentle class for the evening. And one of my faves - Joanne's 7:30pm Saturday night yin class.
Ohhhhhhhh yeahhhhhhh YIIIIIIN!
Other than Gloria's kundalini class, this class would be the first time that I've had a repeat teacher in the past two weeks. That's one thing I really appreciate about Semperviva. It's a large studio, with four locations, and there must be dozens of yoga teachers who teach there. And ALL the teachers are excellent. I like the variety.
Ohhhhhhhh yeahhhhhhh YIIIIIIN!
It's so deep, so stretching, so meditative and so relaxing. So good!
Other than Gloria's kundalini class, this class would be the first time that I've had a repeat teacher in the past two weeks. That's one thing I really appreciate about Semperviva. It's a large studio, with four locations, and there must be dozens of yoga teachers who teach there. And ALL the teachers are excellent. I like the variety.
Day 13 - It's Just Yoga!
I always enjoy Wesley's 11am Saturday Hatha class. He has great energy, plays awesome music, and puts a lot of emphasis on having FUN!
The class was largely flow based, and we did a lot of ab work. He always adds in a little dance routine towards the end, and gets quite silly about it. We started of with some aerobic style shakes, then moving right into mimicking the lawn mower and shopping cart. Ha-ha!!
Wesley finished class by saying something inspirational and deep. And then let it be known that he was quoting the boy band New Kids on the Block!! Too funny!
I really appreciate his sense of humour and playfullness. It's nice relief from all the "Shanti Shanti Om, sanskrit seriousness, headstand showoffness" blah blah madness that can overtake yoga sometimes.
Seriously - it's just yoga!!
The class was largely flow based, and we did a lot of ab work. He always adds in a little dance routine towards the end, and gets quite silly about it. We started of with some aerobic style shakes, then moving right into mimicking the lawn mower and shopping cart. Ha-ha!!
Wesley finished class by saying something inspirational and deep. And then let it be known that he was quoting the boy band New Kids on the Block!! Too funny!
I really appreciate his sense of humour and playfullness. It's nice relief from all the "Shanti Shanti Om, sanskrit seriousness, headstand showoffness" blah blah madness that can overtake yoga sometimes.
Seriously - it's just yoga!!
Friday, 17 January 2014
Day 12 - OMG!
Another day, another yoga class!
As it goes, I had too much to cram into the day, so I wasn't able (or I didn't) leave work early. Not really rocking my Work/Lifestyle Balance new years resolution. Oh well, at least my workaholic tendencies are because I find my work so interesting, and it gives me a strong sense of purpose. The pace is demanding, so I just absorbed. I suppose there could be worse things than feeling engaged with one's work!
Got home at 7:15pm, and had to run to make it to the 7:30pm class. I had just one choice, Kundalini. I would've chosen a less demanding class if I could've. My hamstrings are a little sore from all those squats! So what did I end up doing tonight??
SQUAT COUNT - 128!!
OMG Gloria, you are killing me!
I think it may have been even more, my mind had trouble keeping count. On top of the squats (that is, many varieties of squats!), we bent over our wide spread straight legs over and over and over again, tapping each foot. We did boat with legs moving in and out, many variations of a sit-up, leg raises, some dancing, and bunch of other stuff.
And also a set of what has become my nemesis - "ye ole plank with knee bent in and held for longer than I can do it"! First to nose, then to tricep, and then to bicep. Left knee and right knee. Phew that's a hard one! Body shaking, sweat dripping!
I usually do Kundalini just once a week. The odd time twice a week. But never before three times a week!
Tonights class actually felt easier than the kundalini on Monday and Wednesday. I wonder - was it a more gentle class, or am I just getting stronger?!
As it goes, I had too much to cram into the day, so I wasn't able (or I didn't) leave work early. Not really rocking my Work/Lifestyle Balance new years resolution. Oh well, at least my workaholic tendencies are because I find my work so interesting, and it gives me a strong sense of purpose. The pace is demanding, so I just absorbed. I suppose there could be worse things than feeling engaged with one's work!
Got home at 7:15pm, and had to run to make it to the 7:30pm class. I had just one choice, Kundalini. I would've chosen a less demanding class if I could've. My hamstrings are a little sore from all those squats! So what did I end up doing tonight??
SQUAT COUNT - 128!!
OMG Gloria, you are killing me!
I think it may have been even more, my mind had trouble keeping count. On top of the squats (that is, many varieties of squats!), we bent over our wide spread straight legs over and over and over again, tapping each foot. We did boat with legs moving in and out, many variations of a sit-up, leg raises, some dancing, and bunch of other stuff.
And also a set of what has become my nemesis - "ye ole plank with knee bent in and held for longer than I can do it"! First to nose, then to tricep, and then to bicep. Left knee and right knee. Phew that's a hard one! Body shaking, sweat dripping!
I usually do Kundalini just once a week. The odd time twice a week. But never before three times a week!
Tonights class actually felt easier than the kundalini on Monday and Wednesday. I wonder - was it a more gentle class, or am I just getting stronger?!
Day 11 - Grounded by the Full Moon
Today's class was a true pleasure. It was hatha class, taught by Beverly.
I must say though, it took a bit more 'omph' for me to get myself there...
I left home at 7:30am, worked all day with focussed energy, and didn't get home until 6:50pm. That left me a half hour to eat dinner, and then it was quickly time for the last yoga class of the day at 7:30pm. I didn't get home until after 9pm, which left only a sliver of personal time in the late evening. My apartment is a pig sty with clothes and dishes everywhere, and I have a huge "to do" list to accomplish, but I need to push all that aside for the time being to meet my goals. This would be a typical day for me. With my schedule, doing yoga everyday requires real determination, and it necessitates loose ends.
Lucky for me, Beverly's class was well worth the time spent. She had a theme - being grounded by the full moon, which is glowing brightly in the sky tonight. She talked about the moon's draw of gravity, bringing grounding and ocean waves. And then she guided us through the most amazing set of asanas. This class was all about gentle movements and deep stretch, and it felt absolutely marvellous. As went through the postures, I noticed that I am tired, my leg muscles are fatigued from all the kundalini action over the past few days. I hadn't realized this, until we got into a lunge. So I was very happy for a gentle movement class. There is nothing I like more, then feeling a stretch from the inside out.
Thursday, 16 January 2014
Day 10 - Har Har Har Hari!
ONG NAMO, GURU DEV NAMO
This is the opening mantra for Kundalini Yoga practice. It means "I call upon Divine Wisdom". We always chant this at the start of class.
Tonight's kundaliniclass had a different flavour than Monday night. The emphasis seems slightly more traditional, with more mantras. Lots of movement guided by SA TA NA MA (the eternal circle of life: birth, life, death, rebirth) & HAR HAR HAR HARI! (creative infinity).
For part of the class, we worked in partners, and rotated through a few. With my partner, we moved and clapped hands to the beat of a mantra. I appreciate this interaction, as the strange thing about yoga is that attracts a bunch of like-minded people who are "tuned-in", but for the most part, it's in&out of the studio, without a real chance to meet. I can't say that I've made any new friends at a yoga studio, but at least this partner activity is an opportunity to interact and maybe notice some familiar faces.
Squat Count - 100!!!
On top of 100 Squats, we did a few rounds of jumping jacks, which left me out of breath. There were push ups (ugh!), knee to triceps and held in plank (ugh!), wide legged plank and then lifting hands one by one and moving up and down to forearms (ugh!) , leaning back in boat and moving legs in and out (ugh!), and much more. Basically, a lot of hard work!
Everyone in the class was DRIPPING IN SWEAT!! I think my elbows were even sweating!
Some fun dancing too, of course. This song always gets everyone going!
Tuesday, 14 January 2014
Day 9 - Early Bird Yoga
I am not exactly achieving one of my 40 Day Challenge goals - going to bed earlier. For me, this is a bit like swimming upstream. I've always been a night owl. Lifelong habits and general nature are difficult to change. And on top of that, my busy lifestyle usually means only an hour or so of personal time during the evening, so there is just a lot to cram into the day before bedtime.
Despite that, the good news is that I am feeling very energetic these days. It could be the yoga. Waking up in the morning hasn't been so difficult, which is awesome.
Take this morning for instance - I woke up feeling well rested and wide awake, just before 6am. Long before my alarm was due to go off. It was early enough to make it to 6:15am yoga (the studio is just around the corner from home), which I thought about, but I opted to lounge in bed a little longer, and have a more relaxing start to the day. So that's what I did, and I sauntered to yoga class at 7am.
This mornings class was wonderful! Janet was the teacher. I am not really sure of her background, but she seems to me like someone who goes to the beat of her own drum, and has being doing yoga for a long time, before it really took off with popularity. She carries herself with confidence. Funny thing is that I had previously decided that I didn't like Janet's teaching style, but I've made a 180 in my opinion. I realize that I can be quick to judge teachers who take on the early morning time slot. The bar is set high, for me to feel like waking up early was worth my time.
What I liked about today's class is that it was all over body stretch and tone. Just perfect for a morning energizer. It was the right balance between movement and vigour, without being overly strenuous first thing in the morning. We started out seated, and shaked our outstretched legs. Then we softly pounded our legs with our fists. Then we basically moved across the entire body, waking up the all the muscles and nervous system.
It was lovely. I really enjoyed the class. When it was done at 8:15am, I already felt very accomplished for the day.
Despite that, the good news is that I am feeling very energetic these days. It could be the yoga. Waking up in the morning hasn't been so difficult, which is awesome.
Take this morning for instance - I woke up feeling well rested and wide awake, just before 6am. Long before my alarm was due to go off. It was early enough to make it to 6:15am yoga (the studio is just around the corner from home), which I thought about, but I opted to lounge in bed a little longer, and have a more relaxing start to the day. So that's what I did, and I sauntered to yoga class at 7am.
This mornings class was wonderful! Janet was the teacher. I am not really sure of her background, but she seems to me like someone who goes to the beat of her own drum, and has being doing yoga for a long time, before it really took off with popularity. She carries herself with confidence. Funny thing is that I had previously decided that I didn't like Janet's teaching style, but I've made a 180 in my opinion. I realize that I can be quick to judge teachers who take on the early morning time slot. The bar is set high, for me to feel like waking up early was worth my time.
What I liked about today's class is that it was all over body stretch and tone. Just perfect for a morning energizer. It was the right balance between movement and vigour, without being overly strenuous first thing in the morning. We started out seated, and shaked our outstretched legs. Then we softly pounded our legs with our fists. Then we basically moved across the entire body, waking up the all the muscles and nervous system.
It was lovely. I really enjoyed the class. When it was done at 8:15am, I already felt very accomplished for the day.
Day 8 - Kundalini Goddess
Kundalini Yoga! And holy smokes, was it ever a tough class! Gloria worked us hard tonight, and I am pretty sure that I am going to feel it in the days to come!
Squat Count - 74!
On top of that we moved our arms from side to side in fast twists, did push ups, leg holds to biceps in plank, sit ups, rowing motions, hips lift side planks, and more leg raises than I could hardly handle. And that was about half of it! It an incredible work out. I was dripping in sweat!
And of course, she pumped up the music, and we DANCED! Everyone was going wild, jumping, clapping and dancing like they didn't have a care in the world. It was as though everyone was high, but the only drug was kundalini energy. What an incredible experience to be going off like that, on a Monday night, in a healthy environment.
The energy is so big in Gloria's kundalini class. There were 120 people there, wall to wall, smiley happy people, and I can guarantee you that each every person in the room left feeling happier than when they arrived. That is certainly true for me, for every kundalini class I have ever taken. I really admire, and I am grateful, for what Gloria has built with Semperviva (she owns the studio).
Another nice thing about this evening is that Dana and Marissa joined me for class, and we had a light dinner at my place beforehand. What a fun way to spend the evening together!
Squat Count - 74!
On top of that we moved our arms from side to side in fast twists, did push ups, leg holds to biceps in plank, sit ups, rowing motions, hips lift side planks, and more leg raises than I could hardly handle. And that was about half of it! It an incredible work out. I was dripping in sweat!
And of course, she pumped up the music, and we DANCED! Everyone was going wild, jumping, clapping and dancing like they didn't have a care in the world. It was as though everyone was high, but the only drug was kundalini energy. What an incredible experience to be going off like that, on a Monday night, in a healthy environment.
The energy is so big in Gloria's kundalini class. There were 120 people there, wall to wall, smiley happy people, and I can guarantee you that each every person in the room left feeling happier than when they arrived. That is certainly true for me, for every kundalini class I have ever taken. I really admire, and I am grateful, for what Gloria has built with Semperviva (she owns the studio).
Another nice thing about this evening is that Dana and Marissa joined me for class, and we had a light dinner at my place beforehand. What a fun way to spend the evening together!
Sunday, 12 January 2014
Day 7 - Yes to Yoga!
I really enjoyed today's 9am hatha class. The teacher was Nathalie, she was from Quebec, and reminded me of my sister-in-law, who goes by the same name and has the same French Canadian accent.
Nathalie taught an excellent class, and I was just in the right mindframe to receive it. We did a bunch of standing poses - Warrior One, Warrior Two, Triangle, Crescent Moon, Standing Splits, and Forward Bend - and we did a bunch of seated poses - Forward Fold, Side Twists, and more. I also appreciated the time we spent in mediation. A good five minutes before shavasana, and I felt my whole nervous system slowing down.
Whenever I do Warrior Two, it always reminds me of my very first yoga teacher, Anita, whom I met when I was studying at the University of Alberta. I first came to yoga on my mom's recommendation. She said that she enjoyed yoga back in the 1970's, so I figured I'd give it a whirl. For a couple of years, I took a class with Anita every Tuesday and Thursday at 5:30pm. I am really lucky to have found such a wonderful teacher for the genesis of my practice. Looking back now, I believe she taught a hatha class, with plenty of iyengar influence, as we used chairs, straps, and blocks as props, and proper allignment was emphasized.
When we did Warrior Two, Anita told us to hold our Warrior with strength, and to look beyond our arms with a fierce gaze, as though we were proud warriors fending off combat. That imagery has always stuck with me! I started doing yoga with Anita in January 1997, long before yoga became mainstream popular. Right from the get go, it inspired me immensely, and I've never looked back!
After yoga I strolled to grocery store to buy groceries, including ingredients to make lentil soup, and nice bouquet of yellow flowers. A nice Sunday indeed!
Nathalie taught an excellent class, and I was just in the right mindframe to receive it. We did a bunch of standing poses - Warrior One, Warrior Two, Triangle, Crescent Moon, Standing Splits, and Forward Bend - and we did a bunch of seated poses - Forward Fold, Side Twists, and more. I also appreciated the time we spent in mediation. A good five minutes before shavasana, and I felt my whole nervous system slowing down.
Whenever I do Warrior Two, it always reminds me of my very first yoga teacher, Anita, whom I met when I was studying at the University of Alberta. I first came to yoga on my mom's recommendation. She said that she enjoyed yoga back in the 1970's, so I figured I'd give it a whirl. For a couple of years, I took a class with Anita every Tuesday and Thursday at 5:30pm. I am really lucky to have found such a wonderful teacher for the genesis of my practice. Looking back now, I believe she taught a hatha class, with plenty of iyengar influence, as we used chairs, straps, and blocks as props, and proper allignment was emphasized.
When we did Warrior Two, Anita told us to hold our Warrior with strength, and to look beyond our arms with a fierce gaze, as though we were proud warriors fending off combat. That imagery has always stuck with me! I started doing yoga with Anita in January 1997, long before yoga became mainstream popular. Right from the get go, it inspired me immensely, and I've never looked back!
After yoga I strolled to grocery store to buy groceries, including ingredients to make lentil soup, and nice bouquet of yellow flowers. A nice Sunday indeed!
Saturday, 11 January 2014
Day 6 - From Pow to Pure Relaxation
I skied Blackcomb Mountain with Dana, Kris and Ivan. The snow was fantastic, but the lines were horrible. All that waiting around in the heavy snow made for damp conditions, so it was rather chilly. But when we were skiing, the snow was soft and pillowy, and it was pure heaven. Especially towards the end of day. I found my flow.
Powder days are lot of work, and we skied fast and hard. Skiing the bumps requires your body to twist and turn, and to find torque, your arms and shoulders work the poles with great force. Your leg muscles are tense, and your core works hard to keep everything in check. And it's a hell of a lot of fun!
So what does this have to do with yoga?? Well, yoga was my come down tonight, after a fantastic day of skiing. I had the perfect combination today - skiing the deep pow, followed by a deep stretch with yin yoga.
Whenever I am having a quiet Saturday night, I like to go to Joanne's class. She teaches a great yin class. She has a way with her voice that almost puts you in a meditative trance. And the postures that we go into make me feel the stretch from the inside out. Ahhhhh, so good!
Yin is super relaxing. You are seated or lying on the mat the whole time, and you hold the postures for a long time for a deep release. Rather than working the muscles, it loosens up your connective tissues.
My fave was when we did a crescent moon. Lying on my back, I started off by putting my left foot over my right, and then extending my legs to the right. At the same time, I clasped my hands, and also leaned to the right, so that my body was stretched like a crescent moon towards the right. The release in my outer hip was incredible. This targetted the exact muscles that I had just overworked with skiing, with all those squats and twists and turns through the mogul field. Oh wow! So deep! It was almost painful to get out of the pose!
Even better, I incorporated leftover hot shots from skiing into my yoga practice! Those tiny little packets emit a lot of heat, and it felt so good on my lower back while I was in a deep stretch!
Yup - powder skiing & yin yoga = the perfect combination!
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Friday, 10 January 2014
Day 5 - Slowing Down
I didn't make it to "Crack of Dawn Yoga" this morning (...my alarm didn't go off!), but luckily I did make it to "Nearly the Crack of Dawn Yoga". The class was hatha, taught by Lindsey, and it started at 7am.
It was a slow and gentle class, much like a good stretch, with no vigorous activity. The part of me that is gung-ho to push myself and get in tip top shape struggled with this a bit. Sometimes it feels like a waste of time. But that's when I need to remind myself that yoga isn't about exercice. That's a nice side effect, but the primary purpose of yoga is to calm the mind. And when you put yourself in a quiet room, and go slow and easy with gentle movements, that's exactly what you are forced to do. And it's good for me.
It was a slow and gentle class, much like a good stretch, with no vigorous activity. The part of me that is gung-ho to push myself and get in tip top shape struggled with this a bit. Sometimes it feels like a waste of time. But that's when I need to remind myself that yoga isn't about exercice. That's a nice side effect, but the primary purpose of yoga is to calm the mind. And when you put yourself in a quiet room, and go slow and easy with gentle movements, that's exactly what you are forced to do. And it's good for me.
Thursday, 9 January 2014
Day 4 - Moving Closer...
Today's class was at 7:30pm with Peter. It was a hatha class, and the exact opposite of yesterday's high energy kundalini class. He did not play any music, and there were no rigorous movements with fist pumping and cheers. Instead, the feeling was very calm and reflective.
On the yoga teacher scale of spirituality, Peter ranks fairly high. He always has a message to deliver. Tonight the theme was moving closer to god. Near his mat, I noticed that he had placed a tiny figurine of ganesh, and pictures of yoga teacher gurus (I recongized Iyengar as one). He takes his yoga seriously as a devotion.
We started off with cat/cow, and I noticed that my lower belly muscles are a tad tender. Yay! All this yoga is having an impact!
The two best asanas were Triangle and Camel...
Camel is an interesting one for me. It actually took me years to get into the full position, so that I could hold it with confidence. If there is one part of my body that is tight, it's my shoulders and chest. To get into full camel, you kneel on your knees, push your hips forward and your chest back so that you are in a back bend, and you walk your hands down from your lower back to your ankles - and then you hold it, and continue to push your upper body forward. This opens up your heart center, or your heart chakra, wide open, and it can be surprisingly scary. I don't know what it is, perhaps a feeling of instability, but I think it's more a feeling vulnerability. Well, I've moved past that fear some time ago, so I can do camel now, but it always leaves me feeling a tad overwhelmed.
We started off with cat/cow, and I noticed that my lower belly muscles are a tad tender. Yay! All this yoga is having an impact!
The two best asanas were Triangle and Camel...
Triangle is one of my all time favorite poses. I can sink in real deep, and I love the stretch on my hamstrings and outer hip. Mmmm, so good.
Camel is an interesting one for me. It actually took me years to get into the full position, so that I could hold it with confidence. If there is one part of my body that is tight, it's my shoulders and chest. To get into full camel, you kneel on your knees, push your hips forward and your chest back so that you are in a back bend, and you walk your hands down from your lower back to your ankles - and then you hold it, and continue to push your upper body forward. This opens up your heart center, or your heart chakra, wide open, and it can be surprisingly scary. I don't know what it is, perhaps a feeling of instability, but I think it's more a feeling vulnerability. Well, I've moved past that fear some time ago, so I can do camel now, but it always leaves me feeling a tad overwhelmed.
If I were to ask for one thing from this 40 Day Yoga Challenge, it'd be to open up my heart chakra even more.
Wednesday, 8 January 2014
Day 3 - Kundalini Yoga!
Tonight was one of my faves - Kundalini Yoga with Gloria!!
I've been taking Kundalini class with Gloria for about six years now, and it's a yoga class like no other. Let me paint the picture...
When I arrived, the room was packed wall to wall with yogis. Gloria has an almost a cult-like following, her classes regularly draw 100+ students. She teaches a super high energy, fun-spirited class, and it's amazing to experience this BIG energy with a large group of people.
She started off the by having us sit with our legs straight out, raising our right hand in the air and making a fist, and then pulling it down. Then doing the movement with our left arm, and then in rapid succession. She told us to think about all the things we want in life, and to pull it in. We did this for a good three or four minutes, and it was more exhuasting then you'd think. We did a few variations of this, and then switched gears when she pumped up the music. Dance Party time!! This is the fun part that draws in the crowds! Music was blaring, people were jumping and clapping, and dancing like nobody was watching! We could have been in a sweaty night club, but nope, we were at a yoga studio on a Wednesday night. We did this for four songs, and by the end, blood was pumping and everyone was sweating buckets. We then moved onto planks and bringing our knees to our biceps and holding it for longer than I could do it, and then it was time for squats. And by squats, I mean a A LOT of squats! I counted - I did 69 squats in total. PHEW! I can thank kundalini for getting my body into good shape for ski season! We did a bunch of other things that made everyone sweat and shake, and then shavasana and singing for closure ("...may the long time sun shine upon you...").
She started off the by having us sit with our legs straight out, raising our right hand in the air and making a fist, and then pulling it down. Then doing the movement with our left arm, and then in rapid succession. She told us to think about all the things we want in life, and to pull it in. We did this for a good three or four minutes, and it was more exhuasting then you'd think. We did a few variations of this, and then switched gears when she pumped up the music. Dance Party time!! This is the fun part that draws in the crowds! Music was blaring, people were jumping and clapping, and dancing like nobody was watching! We could have been in a sweaty night club, but nope, we were at a yoga studio on a Wednesday night. We did this for four songs, and by the end, blood was pumping and everyone was sweating buckets. We then moved onto planks and bringing our knees to our biceps and holding it for longer than I could do it, and then it was time for squats. And by squats, I mean a A LOT of squats! I counted - I did 69 squats in total. PHEW! I can thank kundalini for getting my body into good shape for ski season! We did a bunch of other things that made everyone sweat and shake, and then shavasana and singing for closure ("...may the long time sun shine upon you...").
I absolutely LOVE this class, and attend on a weekly basis, if not more. I really appreciate the aerobic activity. You really get your sweat on in this class, so it's different than my other yoga practice. Although, what I love it about it most is that I ALWAYS leave Kundalini in a better mood. In fact, I sometimes feel pure elation. It's very powerful!
When class was over, I asked at the front desk how many students attended. The count was 107. So that'd be 108 in the room, when you include Gloria. 108 is a spiritual number - it's the number of beads on a mala, and it holds significance in mathematics, Indian culture, Hinduism, Buddhism, and much more. Is the 108 count a coincidence? I don't think so!
Tuesday, 7 January 2014
Day 2 - Yoga at the Crack of Dawn
I did it! The alarm went off at 5:54am, and even though I fell asleep late and didn't have the most restful sleep, I woke up with ease, and made it to my 6:15am class!
A big help for my Early Morning Mission is that I live just a five minute walk from my yoga studio. It sure is nice to be nearby, and to not have to deal with a commute or parking. Semperviva has four locations, and two of the studios are just a block and a half from my home, in either direction. This is urban living at it's best!
Today's yoga teacher was Hali. She was young and sweet, and taught a fairly good class, although her flow was a bit chaotic for my liking. My favorite part was at the opening, when she invited us to chant OM with only the third sound - not the "o", not the "ohhhh", but the "mmm" sound. Bumblebee Om she said. This appealed to me, so I did a internet search and learned that the "m" or third sound is representative of a casual, subconscious, deep sleep state. Very suitable for an early morning yoga practice!
After yoga, I must say, I really felt on top of things. There is something about doing yoga at the crack of dawn that makes you feel strong and determined. It's great to accomplish so much early in the day! Good stuff. I'll keep it up with early morning classes.
Monday, 6 January 2014
Day 1 - 40 Day Yoga Challenge
Today is Day One of my 40 Day Yoga Challenge with Semperviva! I am excited to take on this challenge, which coincides nicely with the New Year. There is no better time to set a resolution, and gain momentum for staying on track!
This is my second 40 Day Yoga Challenge, so I know what to expect. For me, the challenge is less about yoga, and more about self-discipline. To accomplish this goal, I will need to prioritize my practice, and make choices to ensure that it happens. I will need to go to the studio, even on days when I am too busy or just don't feel like it. I will need to make healthy choices - with sleep, activities, and consumption - which will give me the time, space, and energy, to go forward with my challenge.
My sister Dana is doing the challenge at the same time, just as we did the last time around, in the Fall of 2012. It's nice to share the experience, so that we can motivate each other and share "yoga chat", about which classes and teachers we enjoy.
The yoga challenge will also be a vehicle for me to reach my other goals. I want to find more balance in my life. I want to work less, and have more time to play. I want to be healthy. I want to go to sleep, and start my day earlier, which means I need to go to bed earlier. And there are a whole bunch of other things that I want to accomplish. A daily yoga practice will help me to facilitate these over-arching goals.
For Day One, I went to a 6pm vinyasa flow class. The teacher's name was Carina, and this was the first time I've taken a class with her. Her knowledge and experience was apparent, and she had a strong voice. She taught a very traditional class, and encouraged us to adopt a regular practice of repetitive asanas, as a way to let go of the mind with yoga. She was one of those teachers who spoke in sanskrit, referring to yoga postures by their traditional name. She had a beautiful voice, and sang a sanskrit mantra a the start of class. I don't always buy into Western yoga teachers who go too far with the traditional ways (why not just speak in English?!), but she carried it off okay.
The class was good. Lots of sun salutations, and very good stretch of my side muscles and groin. I really needed that stretch too, as I just returned from a big three day ski trip.
For much of the class, my mind was preoccupied by a worry that I am carrying, and thoughts about grocery shopping and other mundane tasks. I was able to let that go eventually, more or less, and left the yoga studio feeling more relaxed.
I am now early to bed, to prepare for my big challenge tomorrow - 6:15am yoga!! This is a true challenge, as I am not the early bird type! Definitely feeling motivated though!
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