Thursday, January 29, 2009

A Favorite Buddhist saying:

"When in doubt about where you are meant to be, look down at your feet".

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

AHIMSA

This quarter we will be studying the first yama, Ahimsa, which means non-harm, loving kindness and compassion.
I read once that the opposite of love is not hate but rather indifference. It is important that we care. Caring involves the heart. Caring involves being connected to our deepest love. If our path, our journey, does not have a heart then, as Carlos Castaneda says, "it is of no use".
No one can define what our path should be. We need to allow the question to resonate within us, to listen deeply and eventually the answer will become clear.
Where do you put your time, your strength, your creativity, your love? Does what you are choosing reflect what you most deeply value?

In order to follow a path with heart, we will need to learn to let go over and over, and allow change to unfold.
We may find that love and letting go can be the same thing. Both allow us to be present and accept whatever comes next.
Deeply caring asks us to be in the moment and accept change as it comes.

Reference: Jack Kornfield, A Path With Heart

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Yoga Props

Every teacher has different thoughts and recommendations on using yoga props.
I am convinced that yoga props are important in giving yourself the best and most rewarding practice.
I will start with yoga mats... also known as sticky mats!!!
You do want to have a good quality yoga mat. Yes some are better than others depending on your practice. I provide good quality yoga mats in class, however you may want to bring your own.
Also 1-2 yoga blankets are very important to help find and maintain good alignment and awareness. I encourage you to consider purchasing your own blankets if you are going to have a home practice or continue with classes for more than one 8 week session.
My current reference for ordering blankets is www.yogaprops.net. I do not yet have experience with this company. (But the company I used to work with has different owners and has changed its inventory.)
There are places around town where you can get a yoga mat. One source is REI. They have several brands.
If you are purchasing blocks, be sure to get the 4" ones. If you are purchasing a belt you may want to go with an 8' belt rather than a 6' as it will be more versatile (and with a D-ring if possible.)
Hope this helps.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Inauguration Day

What a day to begin our yoga classes again.
So much of the consciousness of this day and our future is reflected in our yoga teachings and learnings.
This is an opportunity to pledge or commit ourselves to living a better life, to be more mindful and of service in new ways, beginning with the simplest of things. We are asked to be more awake and aware, to "walk the talk", "be the change".
May this be a new beginning for all of us in many unique ways.
Love, light and peace.

Monday, January 19, 2009

Yoga Calendars 2009

Just in case you were wondering....you can still order one of my watercolor yoga calendars in case you missed out or need another one. Please let me know before the end of the month.
Thanks.

YOGA STARTS THIS WEEK!!

Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday classes are all starting this week.
Can't wait!
Registrations are doing great. Tuesday class is full, but there are still a few spaces left in Wed and Friday class. Call 383-3200 to register.

See you soon.

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Sun and Sand...

While many of you experienced a week of rain and flooding, I was fortunate to be away enjoying the warmth of Mexico. Such good timing..... However I was concerned about those of you who might be experiencing hardship because of this weather.
The weather in Mexico was perfect and I felt completely nourished with sun, sand, ocean, rest, good food and company. I did take my "Yoga Paws" with me to practice. Admittedly, I did not practice everyday, but when I did I felt better. The "yoga paws" are easier to fit in my suitcase then a yoga mat, and they are especially good for 'flow yoga'. In case you have not heard of them, they fit on your hands and feet and keep you from slipping. However I do prefer my yoga mat.
(If you are interested go to yogasyz.com)
Looking forward to seeing you soon.
"Like water, we are truest to our nature in repose."
- C. Connolly