Tula Flow

Slide Press To Handstand

2012-02-01T10:04:00.000-08:00

We all need a little nudge sometimes. Big props to Sarah Plotkin for teaching me how to do this when I didn't think I could. Watch this kid-she's going to go far!

Forgiveness Part 1

2012-01-24T10:48:00.000-08:00

Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.

--1st Peter 4:8

There are times in life when God feels close. Often it is in times of suffering, but sometimes our hearts are so full of joy in mundane life that we can't help feeling thankful. In our expressions of gratitude we feel God's presence.

I think deep gratitude is cultivated from learning to love each other well. Specifically loving those who have offended or hurt us. We ask for forgiveness from others when we've hurt them because we're not perfect. We say, "I'm sorry, I'm human, I didn't mean to...:" But the "forgiver" isn't perfect either; all of sudden he or she is held to a higher standard of humanity. And while it may not be welcome, it is an opportunity to push the boundaries of love to a deeper plane--but that doesn't happen at once. This type of love is practiced with many failures. It involves frequently choosing to rise above our feelings and risk that love will drive out fear. And to fall back down because anger and resentment start creeping in.

It is a practice with a lifetime learning curve--sometimes in active pursuit of self awareness and selflessness and sometimes in rest and retreat. This pursuit-- this loving our enemies, transforms our minds so that we connect deeper with each other and Divine love. We start realizing our own neediness and become more generous with compassion. We can begin to love others regardless of their acceptance of us.

Forgiveness, grace, a higher form of love rising from pain makes us steadfast so that we forge deep relationships in mucky situations. For a lot of us, it's uncharted waters--it is easier to call the whole thing off and run. It's a lot to ask--can we risk it?

Sequence for Digestive Health

2012-01-17T08:03:00.000-08:00

Whenever more than one person asks me something specific, like --"what can I do to balance my digestive system", I usually begin emphasizing sequences or techniques in my classes. There are lots of reasons why our digestive systems get outta whack. Diet, hormones, and stress are just a few factors; often it is a combination of these.

At an early age most women have been conditioned to grip and suck in our bellies. This creates a pattern of holding which begins to feel normal. Now, please don't confuse a strong, healthy core with constant contraction. Think about your bicep--how would it feel if you walked around with it contracted about 70% of the time? It would be tired and because it doesn't have a sufficient resting/repairing period it would be weak. This may be what is happening with our gripping bellies. Our tired bellies are not able to properly support and stimulate the digestive organs.

One approach is to retrain the way we use our abdominals through standing well, strengthening and relaxing the core--pelvic floor included--and to use postures to stimulate the digestive system. The following sequence touches on those aspects. You will need props!

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NY Times Article

2012-01-06T14:23:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine asked me my opinion of the NY Times article, "How Yoga Can Wreck Your Body." Here is my email response.

I think it's right on. We bring our personal and cultural neurosis to the practice and if someone doesn't pull us back and tell us things we don't want to hear, then we may get hurt. I've been guilty of pushing people too far--and it is ego or trying to build a reputation as a teacher because we know that most people like flashy poses and the "experience." As I started realizing my agitation as a student, I have consciously tried to reform my practice and teaching so that it is balanced and sensible.

But people are getting hurt--I've been injured in an intense class, by an adjustment, and in a low-key home practice. We're forgetting that the practice is intended to be more of a psychology--a study of the self. We don't have to keep pushing--sometimes what the body needs is to just be. A lot can be done in tadasana.

Injuries happen in every physical endeavor. I think if you love yoga and you know the trifecta of freedom it can bring, then that's a risk you might take. I would encourage people to not move from a place of fear, but of curiosity and mindfulness. I would also strongly suggest that people take foundational classes for at least a 6 months to a year or more before jumping into classes that are way over their head to punish themselves. They should examine what the hell is driving them to do that. That's the yoga.

Pressure Cooking 101

2012-01-04T06:29:00.000-08:00

Since I posted the soup recipe, I've gotten a few questions about pressure cooking. My mom and grandmother have used pressure cookers as a mainstay kitchen tool since, well, probably the inception of pressure cookers. I remember the hiss of the steam in my grandmother's kitchen signalling there was a mess of beans or greens on the way. Delicious!
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And for those resolving...

2012-01-02T13:39:00.000-08:00

Have a level head. Change takes time--lifestyle and habits aren't magically aligned with a quick fix. I have a theory that some of these detox diets and cleanses are just crash diets with a holistic description, so use some common sense. There is great value in dedicating time to a specific diet--one that is healing and full of nutrition, but make sure you are giving the body what it needs and not stripping it of vital nourishment.

After the holidays, I detoxed with the Sattvic Soup and felt energized and satisfied during the entire period. The soup is very hearty and full of fiber so you feel full. Within a couple of days, my guts felt less inflamed and all systems were go. I was on the cleanse for 4 days and after that I moved back into my pre-holiday eating routine which is whole foods based with room for exceptions. Here's how it went:

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Home Studio Photos

2011-12-29T15:38:00.000-08:00

Panoramic View

Sattvic Soup

2011-12-28T11:04:00.000-08:00

Anyone else feeling a bit of the tamas? Try this sattvic-inspired soup to open up the channels and get the light flowing.

Vegetable broth:
2-3 Carrots
Parsnip
2 Turnips
Onion*
Garlic*
Potato*
2 Bay leaves
Couple sprigs of thyme or 2 teaspoons dried
Salt
*---not technically sattvic, but well cooked with love.

Other ingredients:
Whole grain brown rice
Fresh spinach

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Come See What's Cooking at the Tula Shala!

2011-12-11T13:11:00.001-08:00

30 Minute Detox Sequence

2011-11-29T05:54:00.001-08:00

I realized after finishing off the pumpkin cheesecake on Saturday night that the Friday detox classes are a bit premature. The detox needs to happen the week after Thanksgiving! So for my busy home practitioners, here is a little sequence to get you going. I'm keeping the posture descriptions brief--if you need further explanation you can visit Yoga Journal or purchase a copy of Light on Yoga.

3 Surya A
Down Dog to low lunge both sides--place hands on blocks take several breaths in each of these lunges
Down Dog to easy twisting low lunge -left hand stays on floor under left shoulder twist right, right arm reaches up. repeat
Tadasana
High lunge both sides
Standing forward bend several breaths
Revolved triangle at the wall--right foot forward right hip near the wall. square hips, anchor feet, and hinge forward. left hand on block, right hand on wall or use both hands on the wall for balance in the twist--play with the arm positioning and see what happens. repeat
High lunge with prayer twist--hook left armpit over right knee, press palms together--stay several breaths and repeat
Navasana 2 or 3 x's
Cobra 2 or 3 x's
Child's pose
Marichyasana C
Bridge with block under sacrum
Legs up wall
Savasana

Practice. Repeat. Repeat again.

2011-11-17T11:36:00.001-08:00

I'm practicing the courses in the back of Light on Yoga. Round about week 16, the sessions begin with sirsasana and sarvangasana cycles. It sounds silly to say since it written by Mr. Iyengar, but the sequencing is amazing. After practicing, I feel really good--balanced, refreshed, and light. Which is a nice because I've been experiencing some agitation in my practice. I think it's because I have an undercurrent of thought about my personal practice creating the next class I'm teaching. I've been moving from the outside in instead of the inside out. Thank goodness for a solid remedy.

In Light on Yoga, each asana sequence in Course 1 is repeated for two weeks before you move onto the next sequence. Course 2 has you repeating the same asana sequence for 4 weeks. Course 3 sequences repeat from 4-9 weeks. You get the point.

Obviously Ashtanga Yoga follows the same logic. The same series of poses are practiced until one feels ease within the poses.

Repetition, repetition-like musical scales that are practiced and memorized so that one can more fully understand the depth of the the music. It's not always fun, exhilarating, or palatable to those who crave a unique experience for every practice. But I think it may be the antidote to our over-stimulated, experience seeking, yet unfulfilled culture.

As a teacher planning vinyasa classes, I often react to the last class I planned. In other words, if I focused on hips on Monday, then we'll do core on Friday. The theory is to keep it fresh so that students don't feel like I'm teaching the same class every time. But I'm reconsidering this logic moving from the idea that we need to learn fewer postures really well instead of learning lots of postures shallowly. In other words, I'm going to focus on consistency peppered with creativity. Let's do less and accomplish more.

Private Sessions for Home Practice

2011-11-11T18:50:00.001-08:00

I'm a home practice fanatic. It's where you start applying your knowledge, honing your intuition, and become your own teacher. I love the community and energy of public classes, but my home practice is where the "good" happens.

Private lessons are a great way to initiate a solid home practice, so for a limited time I am offering private sessions at my home studio for $25 per hour. Yes it's cheap--only $10 more than a public class, but I have minimum overhead, so why not. In addition to the session, I'll plan sequences for you to practice at home so that you can begin your own study.

This is a great way for a newbie to set strong foundations for a healthy practice; experienced practitioners will benefit from focused instruction and discussion. If you buy a series of 4 or more, you will "lock in" your rate --meaning the fee at my home studio will always be $25 per hour.

Contact me for more details.

30 Minute Yoga Tonic

2011-11-11T13:27:00.001-08:00

The following is a 30 minute rejuvenating sequence for when your energy is low. Many of us do not have bolsters at home, but I have found that the use of blankets and blocks are a nice substitute. For a bolster, I use 3 foam blocks placed lengthwise and place a folded blanket over them. If you have tightly woven blankets you can fold them narrowly and stack them as well. This works nicely as you can customize the height to meet your body's needs. Marshall's currently stocks a 2-block/strap combo for $4.99--excellent buy if you wanting to invest in some affordable props.

This is a minimum of 30 minutes--you can extend the time in the poses for as long as you need.

Reclining butterfly with bolster/blanket-block combo~5 minutes
Child's twist--As you come out of reclining butterfly, bring your knees together and roll to the right. Keeping the hips and knees to the right, frame the bolster with your hands, push up slightly and turn the torso to the left and lay on the bolster for a twisting childs pose. Change sides ~1 minute each side
Downward dog with feet on blocks--I love this variation--it creates tons of space in the spine. Stay in the pose for a couple of minutes and then begin to slowly bring your knees to the floor as you move into cow pose. Cat pose takes you back to down dog on blocks. Flow between the cow/cat for a few rounds lifting to and from down dog. ~5 minutes
Standing forward bend--using hands or head on blocks~2 minutes
Chair at wall--place back against wall, thighs parallel to floor. Anchor in the feet, engage legs and core. Find a shake and breathe for a few breaths. Repeat a couple of times. ~2 minutes
Headstand or wide-leg forward fold--place hands on blocks if needed~2 minutes--sit on heels after headstand for a few breaths.
Legs up wall--use bolster/block-blanket combo to lift hips up. Move through extended legs, to straddle, to butterfly~3 minutes
Supported bridge--place block under sacrum. Knees can be bent or extended with feet reaching to the long edges of the mat. Breathe in and out of the sacrum~3-4 minutes.
Savasana~6 or more minutes. Set a timer if you are on a time crunch and allow yourself to fully relax.

30 Minute Energizing Sequence

2011-11-09T06:32:00.000-08:00

Childs Pose ~1 minute-->slide to belly
Cobra x 3 start with baby cobra and gently increase height~1 minute
Down Dog--feel it out and breathe for 10-15 breaths ~2 minutes
Down dog through plank to cobra x 3 with breath ~2 minutes
Down dog to low lunge--hands on floor or blocks --engage core lift heart 5-10 breaths--travel through vinyasa for second side ~2 minutes
Walk hands back to feet--standing forward fold for 5 breaths-->
spinal roll up to samasthiti for 5 breaths--> \
chair pose--5 breaths--> 3 minutes
forward fold-->walk hands to down dog-- /
Down dog to high lunge--hands to hips--engage core--lift breast bone travel through vinyasa for second side~2 minutes
Walk hands back to feet--standing forward fold for 5 breaths-->
spinal roll up to samasthiti for 5 breaths--> \
chair pose--5 breaths--> standing backbend--root down through legs, thumbs to the sacrum, spiral elbows toward each other, pull belly in and lift the heart
forward fold-->walk hands to down dog-- 3 minutes
Down dog to high lunge--engage core--lift arms and breast bone --moving to revolved triangle (probably shorten stance a bit)--use blocks and modifications--travel through vinyasa for second side~2 minutes
Plank to belly-->locust pose x 3 ~1-2 minutes
Bow pose~30 secs-1minute
Childs pose
Headstand
Sitting on heels breathe---1 minute
Reclining twist
Gentle bridge
Savasana

30 Minute Practice Ideas For Busy Moms Part 1

2011-11-08T13:39:00.000-08:00

I received a request for a 30 minute sequence for a busy mom. This is something I'm good at--finding the time to fit in a home practice around my householder responsibilities. A short, focused home practice is very beneficial--every little bit counts! Here's the first sequence for an advanced beginner/intermediate practitioner--keep it simple and take your time. More to come!

30 Minute Strength-Building Sequence:

Standing forward fold with deep bend in knees~1 minute
Spinal rolls (belly button to spine--strong legs/rag doll arms) up and down x 3 ~1 minutes
Samasthiti bring full attention to breath here--~1 minute
Surya Namaskar A (sun salute)--start with a few breaths in each posture gradually moving with each breath--taking at least 5 breaths in down dog x 3 ~5-7 minutes
Utkatasana (chair pose)~5-10 breaths~30 secs-1 minute
Travel slowly through vinyasa (sun salute) to down dog
Right side: Warrior 2-5 breaths-->Side Angle -5 breaths-->Triangle 5 breaths--> vinyasa repeat left side ~5 minutes for both sides-->vinyasa
Tree Pose 1 minute each side--Vinyasa
Bakasana- x 2 with vinyasa between ~1 minute
Torso Curl--(lying on back legs up to ceiling, belly pulled in curling up on exhalation) x 5 or 6 ~3 minutes
Supported Bridge 1 minute
Reclining big toe pose ~2 minutes total
Headstand ~varies--if yer feeling it!
childs pose ~1 minute
savasana~3-5 minutes--more if you have time.

Nike A Go Go

2011-10-07T14:40:00.000-07:00

For real I think this is last video for awhile! But I've been on a roll and I've been asked what all will be in the workshop. So here is a taste of what's coming up on October 15th from 1:30-3:30 at Steadfast and True. $20 if you sign up early. That's a deal folks!!

New Class!

2011-10-04T18:53:00.000-07:00

Beginning next Tuesday at 5:30, join me at Steadfast and True for Ashtanga Mix! This is my favorite way to practice and teach by combining commitment, consistency, and creativity. We'll travel along the Ashtanga forms, but take some side roads too.It is some tough fun!

Flying Workshop October 15th

2011-10-03T07:50:00.000-07:00

Saturday October 15th 1:30-3:30 at Steadfast and True

The way you travel matters. Transition is a huge part of your practice andyour life, so discover the means to move with strength and grace. This workshopwill focus on floating from downward dog to various standing, balancing, andseated postures. We’ll begin by igniting the core, learning specificconditioning exercises, and then get to it by getting those bottoms up. Channelyour inner Nike and find your wings and fly.

Nike is the winged goddess of victory. Nike a-go-go is a misfits song--just sayin'.

Handystand Video

2011-09-28T13:51:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Eva B. Here's a practice sesh moving from prasarita padottanasana to straddle handstand and then back down to konasana. And no, I can't go back up. Yet.

Private Sessions at the Tula Shala!

2011-09-14T12:06:00.000-07:00

Private lessons are a great way to establish a firm foundation in your practice. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced student, a private session with an instructor is the best way to meet your individual needs. Private sessions can also rev up a home practice--which I am a huge proponent of.

I currently have one time slot available on Thursdays from 11:30-12:30 at my home studio which is nicely outfitted with props and a yoga ropes wall. This can be private or semi-private. Contact me if you are interested!

Beach Yoga

2011-09-09T04:46:00.000-07:00

The Practice These Days

2011-08-07T19:54:00.000-07:00

A little update on my self-practice these days. Since my husband installed the yoga ropes wall I've been pretty tied up with a rope practice. My initial ideas about using the ropes in an acrobatic fashion have been replaced with a more hatha approach--I use the traction to create space, strength, and a deeper understanding of alignment. To be blunt, they are friggin' awesome--hips are open, core is getting stronger, backbends feel amazing, and my spine is decompressed after each session. And let's set something straight--hatha is not just "yoga for beginners." It's good stuff.

The hatha sessions provide focused practice on specific postures and transitions. And then a couple times a week, I bust out creative ashtanga forms for a well-rounded practice. These are pure fun and hard work. The two methods seem to compliment each other nicely as the hatha gives me a deeper understanding of the poses and the ashtanga allows me to weld the information into a familiar form and flow within it. Pretty sweet deal-I'm having fun.

Within this combo, I feel like I broke through a plateau and am making some new progress. We generally dislike the prospect of plateauing, but that is where the good work takes place. When you aren't moving up or out, you go in and deep--which may be the point of all this anyway. All I can say is "do your practice"--and you know the rest....

Peace out playaz.

Ferris Wheel

2011-07-25T14:12:00.000-07:00

I often recall a memory of my oldest son riding on a small ferris wheel when he was 4 years old. He was dazzled at the lights, music, and motion of the ride. His bright eyes were wide with child-filled wonder and he had the sweetest smile the entire time. To him, the world was a place for great joy. I wept silent tears knowing that someday he would know the other side of life.

As my children grow older, I often find myself grieving the subtle tarnishing of this innocence as they encounter the realities of living. School isn't perfect, friends let you down, parents don't understand. I forget our humanity and make the mistake of becoming upset because we and they are not perfect. The internal conflict is rooted in pride and entitlement.

We all feel the tension of life as we exist in this place between suffering and celebration. Some of us may gravitate a little more to one side or the other, but we all feel the pull. It's through both sides that we become brightened and refined or darkened and hard. How we transform depends on our willingness to see ourselves as we are--the good and the bad--and allow God's grace to fill us in.

We often resist the idea of looking at our shortcomings; it can be a downward spiral to despair if you don't have hope for change. The big problem with denying our faults is that we can't transform what we can't see. So, they're in there rolling around your being and wreaking havoc on you and your relationships. But here's a little something sweet about a hard self-realization. God's love is bigger than your faults and you can let those go to him. From this place, you have the freedom to show yourself and others greater compassion. Superiority and denial fly out the window and you have found humility. And that is soft, bright, and refined.

Love

2011-07-10T16:12:00.000-07:00

Love comes in many colors, shades, and forms. Sometimes love transforms and grows brighter by people working through the tough stuff in life. As we spend more relational time together, our humanity often shows itself in selfish ways. Love weeds out our selfish desires and teaches us how to give more grace by recognizing our own faults. This is a lifelong process of character building and identity formation. I liken it to hiking along switchbacks on a beautiful mountain. You're always working hard--sometimes you feel lost in the forest, but other times the view is breathtaking.

And then sometimes God places people in your life that you love easily, without interruption or much effort. Two spirits connect in a rich way that never fades regardless of time or space. Often words aren't needed or even enough, but you simply know each person loves the other as deeply and fully as possible.

My dear Uncle Roy. On Saturday you told me that I would never know how much you loved me. But I do know and have always known. Thank you for being that joyful gift of love to me. Peace be with you.

RAJAKAPOTASANA

2011-06-27T13:06:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the all caps, but my J key is stuck and that's the only way I can type it! Anyway, I'm teaching a back-bending workshop at Steadfast and True on July 16th! More details very soon.

New Space

2011-06-18T18:44:00.000-07:00

As of this week, my sole occupation other than a wife and mom is to teach yoga. Long story short, it was time to move on from my part-time job and focus my energy on this passion that I'm silly over. So in this process, I literally had to move stuff out of the way. And as my old office became bereft of desks, chairs, and electronics, new ideas and potential opportunities came my way--all in the same day.

My former office is evolving into a more formal home studio and today my awesome husband outfitted that space with a yoga ropes wall. It was cheap friends!! I was able to pick up some expired rope from a climbing club and the brackets were purchased at Home Depot. And now I can deftly tie a triple fisherman's knot, so you know what that means. I'm a tough cookie.

Have a look-see at what's going on in my lil' shala and if you're interested in a private session or a small group class contact me.

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Attachments

2011-06-02T05:48:00.000-07:00

Funny thing about attachments. They can make you do things you don't want to do. One of my sons is very attached to his blanket. It is a Linus situation; he keeps it close by, wraps it around his head like a turban, brings it presents, and generally feels a sense of security and comfort when he has it. And as with all children, we've been going through a "boundary exploration" period where he is trying to find a new edge with behavior.

We ran through the gamut of consequences involving removing privileges, but we finally had to go for the golden cow. The blanket went up on the fridge until he earned it back with kind words, listening ears, hands to himself, and all that good citizen type behavior. It took one day for a complete turn-around in attitude.

The focus in all this is not the discipline technique, but a lesson in how our attachments can be used to manipulate or even imprison us. Attachments can be unhealthy activities like smoking or really good things--such as your job, spouse, hobby, and even yoga. But when you place inordinate value on them, they can become dangerous. These temporal things or activities are good gifts for provision and enjoyment, but finding your identity in them causes you to become subordinate to them.

Sunsphere Handstand Tag

2011-05-30T12:43:00.000-07:00

Bottoms up! This was taken by one of my dearest friends in the world during a night out in Knoxville. She's one of those people who makes you feel free so shooting a night-time handstand tag framed with the car headlights seemed perfectly natural. Check out those stars man! The security guard was keeping his eye on us, but you know handstands are not a crime.

Check out her work at Sheena Patrick Photography. I love you Sheena.

Advanced Yoga

2011-05-24T19:14:00.000-07:00

Advanced yoga is a relative term. Most of us throw that label on the fancy pants poses or transitions, but truly advanced yoga takes place in the unseen realm. Sometimes, moving forward in the physical practice enamors you with the postures--specifically yourself in them. This can be particularly titillating for the ego and the practice shifts the focus from a process to a goal. Eventually you may base your entire identity in your ability to perform asana or being a "yogi".

I would caution against this, but some lessons are best learned from personal experience. A person ardently striving toward tougher poses for recognition or glory will often sustain an injury. As a practitioner that has sustained ego-driven injuries, I can say I do not like them, but I have found that some of my deepest insights have come through them. Injuries can break down the ego, illuminate your vulnerability, and show you what your wrap your identity in. As you become less able to "do", you may become more able to "be." In other words your identity may move from the perishable world and seek something everlasting that you cannot see. Thus the practice of faith can begin.

A person that has been released from proving themselves can find immense freedom. This does not mean that one gives up or becomes lazy. It means that efforts originate from a place of security that isn't tied up with performance. This initiates action from thankful and humble hearts instead of legalistic duty or self-glorification.

You may lose attachment to the goal, pose, whatever. But often when you lose your grip on what you think you need to achieve, the pathway gets a bit clearer. You may find yourself opening up in ways that you didn't realize were possible and that pose or goal may present itself to you. But it may not--either way you realize that your identity isn't based on what you do but how you do it.

Words From Wayne Coyne

2011-05-19T16:12:00.000-07:00

From the Nashville Scene Interview

I treat being in the Flaming Lips as a serious profession. I’m very lucky that people give me their time and their money, and I would treat it the way I would want a dentist to treat me, I treat it the way I want an airline pilot to treat me. You know, I don’t want to be on an airplane if the guy says, “I don’t fucking feel like doing this today. I don’t really give a shit.” I want to be on an airplane where the guy says, “It doesn’t matter how I feel. I asked these people to be here, they give me their money. I don’t want to go to a dentist who doesn’t give a shit about how much nerve gas he has given me and then I pass out. So my attitude is like, even though this is about art and it’s about the moment, it’s also to me, I’m not like that. I wouldn’t invite you to a party at my house and then get here and say, “Dude, I’m kinda having a mood. Fuck you.” I would be like, “I can get over my mood. You’re here, and we can make this great.” The Flaming Lips are saying, “It’s not about our mood. It’s about this music, and this music is bigger than we are, and more important than we are and we’re lucky that we get to play this music, and this music will invoke other things that hopefully can overtake our little moment, this little internal moment, and we can all be something else for the moment. So, yeah, I’m not saying that they have to live their life that way, [but] when I go to play, I’m there for the audience. I don’t give a shit. And the bands that I love the most are the same way. I don’t give a shit about the monitors, I don’t give a shit that it’s raining, and I don’t give a shit that I just ran into some bitchy woman backstage — I’m here for you. And if you guys wanna rock, we’re gonna rock.

Post-Natal Yoga

2011-05-14T11:44:00.000-07:00

I am happily offering private sessions for post-natal moms! As a mom of 2 raucous boys, I have utilized yoga to navigate the hills and valleys of the post-natal season. These personalized sessions will combine my experience as a mom and my yoga knowledge to create a warm atmosphere to help you move toward balance.

Each session will:

Increase strength, flexibility, and reclaim your core
Address issues such as back, neck, and shoulder pain
Relieve stress, anxiety, mood swings
Provide a safe place for stillness and deep relaxation

I will include personal practice plans and tips for carving out time for yourself. Contact me for more information.

Interview with Brett Williams

2011-05-08T19:36:00.000-07:00

This is the first of a teacher interview series and I am so excited to kick it off with a conversation with Brett Williams. I've actually blogged about Brett before in this post. She was the teacher that suggested I try the Ashtanga class which hooked me with up Gillian St. Clair. She also was my first teacher to bust out a handstand flow and explained the whole process whilst in a handstand-a feat that I'm still in awe of. If you know Brett, you know this will be great and if you don't, prepare to fall in love with her.

Handstand Tag Nashville Skate Park

2011-04-30T13:31:00.000-07:00

Catching some air in the bowl.

Rocking Dhanurasana--Acro Style

2011-04-30T13:30:00.000-07:00

Zee Video Blog

2011-04-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

This is the practice sesh I was gonna post on Sunday, but had a whole lotta shakin' to do instead.

Retrograde

2011-04-20T13:08:00.000-07:00

Mercury is in retrograde. The reason I know this is because of the online chatter-not because I follow astrology. Don't get me wrong, I do believe planets, moons, orbits, and gravitational pulls have strong effects on us. But I don't get hung up on horoscopes. It goes against my ideas of living in the present and developing my own intuition.

So I discounted the Mercurial Retrograde phenomena which is supposed to affect communications and travel, but I gotta say it's been a crazy couple of weeks. There have been random hiccups in almost all of my plans and things have just gone wrong. For the most part, in small ways such as locking my keys in the car (it was running) or knocking my toe nail off with the closet door (not with chataraunga!) or mixing up my words in class.

But last night presented a large bump in the road. Our family rode our bikes, skateboards, and scooters to the park. On the way, we were traveling down a hill and a truck came flying up on a blind turn. Life moved into slow motion as I saw my son in the truck's path. My mind told my voice to yell, my body moved as fast as I could, and my spirit cried to God for mercy. Thankfully, my son veered off into the grass as the truck whizzed by.

You see, Mercury is in retrograde, but God is in control. And while life, planets, and people may move like shifting shadows, he stays solid. In these moments of complete helplessness, God's power is not diminished by planetary orbits or our feelings about him, but he shows himself as strong and trustworthy. These seasons that bring a bit of chaos into life provide opportunities for us check into what we put our faith in. Is it what we can control or living in the present trusting him?

Killer Yoga

2011-04-17T14:05:00.000-07:00

I had a plan for today's post--video and all. But I got a call from a true blue friend who asked me to go see Jerry Lee Lewis. Without hesitation I jumped on the chance and had a wonderful time. Sunny, 70, Jerry Lee, and all of the randomness that Nashville brings. Perfect day.

Speaking of Nashville, the longer I live here, the more I love it. It is a creative and energetic city all wrapped up in southern grace and charm. I'm happy to call it home.

Sometimes doing yoga means you don't do yoga. You make space for things that bring you balance and joy--such as friends, family, experiences, art, and adventure. Lose the attachment to what you think your practice should be and see what unfolds.

Saturday Partner Yoga and Acrobatics

2011-04-08T06:01:00.000-07:00

Saturday April 9th 3-5 at Steadfast and True Yoga!

Outside, Crow, Budig, & Sweat Pants

2011-04-03T11:14:00.000-07:00

My favorite yoga happens on my back porch. I might belabor that point a bit, but I get very inspired and free out there. Maybe it is the sense of space all around instead of being boxed in by walls. I love the ambient sound while I'm practicing and I'm tinkering around with the idea of teaching without music again.

I shot this video on a whim today. It is nowhere near perfect, but it is inspired by a few things. 1. Being outside 2. Kathryn Budig who I had the honor to practice with on Friday 3. Perseverance and contentment with the moment. I think my favorite part of the clip is the end--listen for the crow's approval.

Kathryn Budig is awesome by the way-no ego, lots of laughs, and mad skillz. I wish I could have studied with her more this weekend, but it wasn't to be. I can wholeheartedly recommend that you seize the opportunity to take a class with her if you have a chance.

Also, I am bringing back sweat pants. The fleece-less types are cool even in a warm room and you don't have to worry about camel toe or panty lines. Thank you Target for making dreams come true.

To Say

2011-03-22T14:46:00.000-07:00

This blog goes through cycles between hosting information about events and inspired essays. Sometimes I come to it thinking I need to bring a musing, but I don't have one. A lot of times I make the mistake of trying to write one, but it always feels forced and usually gets deleted.

It's ok to be quiet and put some weight behind your words. Too often, words that historically had heavy meanings are tossed around in common banter and lose their efficacy. I think it stems from our culture's fascination with stimulation--everything needs to be intense, amazing, and extreme. We hop from climax to climax without any down time and then wonder why we feel empty when we have those rare moments of quiet.

I'm trying to hold fast to "lead me beside the still waters" because that is where our souls are restored. Life distracts and clutters our connection with God, but I don't believe we need to withdraw into a cave to feel His presence. Dedicated time and short frequent prayers can orient our heart to Him.

Ironically, Psalm 23 is a perfect example of words being so popularized that we forget their profound teaching--maybe the remedy is to conscientiously practice bringing a fuller truth back into our speech. And to cherish silence.

Sunny Sunday Afternoon

2011-03-20T18:11:00.000-07:00

How about a photo blog from today?? Photos by John.

Me and the Artist

Monkey Business

He's Got The Jack

The Steadfast Crew (Almost)

2011-03-03T15:34:00.000-08:00

These people are awesome. Do you know them? I am fortunate to have them in my life--even if it is only for a little while now and again. They are inspiring and passionate teachers with amazing spirits and I'm thankful for them.

This week I took Gillian's class and she asked us to ask ourselves, "Do you need to breathe in or out?" I realized that I've been so busy trying to exhale the junk that I've forgotten to breathe the good in--literally by limiting my breath, but also by isolation from my friends and family. I immediately began to remedy the situation and realized by just being there I was stepping in the right direction. Once I began moving I was reminded how blessed I am to be surrounded by loving people in my family, my friend circle, and with the people I teach with.

There is this wonderful thing that happens when you start practicing gratitude--you begin to find more and more things to be thankful for. This time, it all started with my breath.

Dr. Dre

2011-02-26T05:13:00.000-08:00

It's Dre. And Eminem is rulin it. The first time I heard the Chronic I thought my mind would implode. And now Dre looks like a super hero!

Steadfast and True Presenting "The Art of Yoga" at Frist Center

2011-02-19T10:11:00.000-08:00

In conjunction with the Frist Center for the Visual Arts Exhibition, Vishnu, Hinduism's Blue Skinned Savior, Steadfast and True Yoga will present a lecture and yoga class on Saturday March 19th from 2-4. Seth and I will lecture on the development and evolution of yoga over the centuries and Gillian will teach a class focusing on poses related to the art on view.

We are completely honored to share our love and knowledge of the practice in the same space with over 170 paintings, sculptures, and ritual objects made in India from the 4th to 12th century. Please join us!

The Springtime Award

2011-02-16T14:37:00.000-08:00

Back in the day, when we were young, unbridled, and careless with ourselves our group made an interesting observation. Every spring one or more of us would lose our shit. Someone would either take too many drugs they shouldn't or stop taking the ones that they should. This usually resulted in an abbreviated stay at a rehab facility or a visit to a psychoanalyst of some sort. To us, this was no big deal because when your reality is consistently altered with intoxicants, these types of situations are part of the package. Unhealthy is not only normal--it feels comfortable. As spring would begin to peek out of the winter, we would joke about who would receive the Springtime Award.

Drugs or no drugs, we were onto something. "Spring fever" is thought to be a result of hormones re-balancing themselves to compensate for the light changes. Serotonin, which makes us feel good, gets depleted over the winter due to the lack of sunlight and melatonin takes over. As the days get longer, hormone levels readjust putting a great strain on the body.

The spring and all its momentum can have a dramatic effect on us. In spring, the sap is literally rising and there is a upward movement in energy. Things start to awaken and while this is a time of bloom, that upward energy can dislodge some of the emotional junk that's been held down low through the winter.

It happens to me every year. The spring brings up the stuff I thought was buried. It percolates around in my consciousness and I have to process it. Back in the day, the junk would be so overwhelming that I would intoxicate or numb myself for relief, but that's just fighting problems with bigger problems. RIP Elliot Smith. Now, I find myself standing in the pain. It's uncomfortable and I don't like it, but I allow myself to grieve knowing that there is another side. And in the middle of it, I have hope knowing that suffering refines us to be more Christlike and I remember how I have been faithfully and gently delivered in the past.

I don't jive with the philosophies that suggest we can be free from suffering, but I do believe we can have peace whether suffering or celebrating. It's a deep calm center in the middle of what's swirling around that steadies the soul while the mind and heart evaluate the situation. Whatever season we're in.

Interview with Ian MacKaye - Revolution Summer (PART FOUR)

2011-02-08T14:33:00.000-08:00

Stick with it till 1:10. Insightful comments on identity, living, and dying. And facebook.

Freeing It Up

2011-02-04T15:14:00.000-08:00

Something has happened to me and I feel a huge shift in my practice and teaching. It started last year, but it really culminated about the time of this post. I feel like I've been freed up by combining traditional principles with creative expression and breaking some rules. And it feels good. Really good.

It is the transference of energy. It originates in the core and spreads out to and past the extremities. Once there is awareness of energetic movement the practice has a new atmosphere. It has lightness and fluidity supported by strength. I can feel it in the body and see it in my students. Their movements are meditative and graceful. As they grow aware of energetic transitioning in foundational poses, they can take the same approach into more difficult postures such as handstands. No muscling or catapulting, just effortless movements made with a peaceful mind. It's pretty incredible to see.

I'm stoked. It's been a happy accident and a direction I didn't plan on taking, but it is my expression of the practice. The evolution continues.

#2 Resolution I Will Stop Reading Irritating Posts

2011-02-03T19:53:00.000-08:00

The internet. Luckily we have some control over what we get fed if we have the guts to exercise that option. I found myself getting lost in the blogs, but I guess you gotta give them a little time to decide if you want to commit to be a reader. And really there are so many of us out there, the criteria for following and even actually reading one is pretty stiff.

But after some time, I realized that some exist solely to agitate or "get the conversation" going. I understand, but I think that yoga doesn't really need help with the mass/mainstream promotion anymore. I got one word. Oprah.

The controversies, the conversations mean nothing to me when I'm on my mat, seeking silence, or teaching a class. Debates over teachers, styles, and clothing should not occupy the space that honest stories, asana tips, and good insight should fill. It takes some time to find those, but I'm glad I have.

Ultimately, it comes down to where you spend your time. And what you put into your spirit. Which is another post.

The Wall

2011-02-01T08:31:00.000-08:00

Using the wall for inversions can be a great prop, but also an obstacle to progressing in a posture. The wall allows one to have the experience of the pose and provides stability for alignment adjustments, but I try to move students away from the wall once the confidence level builds. Otherwise, the wall becomes a permanent fixture in the pose.

Often I will introduce handstand hops in the middle of the room before I allow anyone to go to the wall. This helps the students practice an exit plan for the posture. Sometimes they catch the hips over the shoulders and voila--of course as soon as they realize they've caught a handstand they come down, but the possibilities have unfolded.

Iyengar writes about the body having its own intelligence which is more truthful than the mind's. The mind will say, "I can do that crazy backbend.." and the body will retort "Oh no you can't." But more often, the mind tells the body that it can't move into something when the body is perfectly ready and able. Through our practice, we work toward uniting both intelligences so that truthfulness is thought and expressed. This is a much higher goal than handstand and a fruit of the practice that can be translated into our lives.

1. Truth in Love

2011-01-29T07:28:00.000-08:00

Oh law, this one is tough. I tend to speak truth, or my truth based on my perspective, pretty easily. I'm not usually afraid to say what I think or feel, but I don't always do this in a loving way. In the last few years, I have been practicing holding my tongue. Instead of spilling out every thought in response to a situation I *try* to pause for a moment and consider my words. Please note the "try"--my husband can attest that this does not always happen. All this covered in grace.

For me this is a huge behavioral shift. As a teenager and young adult, I prided myself on quick retorts--my ability to debate and frankly cut someone down was pretty skilled. Nowadays, I occasionally feel the need to cut the bullshit--you know call someone out, but those instances are fewer and far between.

Somewhere along the way I've realized it's usually not about me. Of course I have offended people and I'm not denying responsibility for my wrongs, but often someone's beef has more to do with self identity and pride. If I am able to space myself from the situation and try to look at it objectively, then I usually feel compassion. Often it's anger first, then compassion and I think that's ok. I would much rather be authentic in my feelings than to pretend that every response is untainted. We're just human.

Moving from the pause to the loving and truthful response. Well, I did mention this is my resolution for the year, so here is how I think I'll approach it. Still starting with the pause and maybe allowing that pause to settle in for awhile--heck a day, week, whatever and losing the need to defend myself--wha wha what? Yep, remembering it's not always about me and I'll try not to bring my stuff into it. Basically, the whole process is a energy diffuser--like a huge lion's breath. Perhaps the pause and the intention to speak truth lovingly injects peace into the situation. And that stuff is contagious.

Yet, sometimes the most loving thing you can do is boldly speak truth-even if it painful to that person. The litmus test for this conversation is are you trying to build up or break down. If it is the latter, go back and re-examine your own heart.

Wow. Huge lifetime practice. The idea is not perfection, but a deeper self knowledge and understanding of grace. Because in the cracks, weaknesses, and brokenness we'll find God binding us together.

Resolutions

2011-01-23T08:52:00.000-08:00

For some reason, here at the end of January I feel compelled to make some resolutions.

1. I will practice speaking truth in love.
2. I will stop reading blogs/news/tweets that consistently irritate me.
3. I will be more aware of what is poured into my spirit.
4. I will practice forgiveness in bigger and deeper ways knowing that forgiveness develops a more pure heart. The kind of heart that can go beyond wounds and offenses and produce a love that surpasses understanding.
5. I will practice compassion for myself and others knowing that we are only human.
6. I will practice thanksgiving more frequently.

I will wrap all of these resolutions in God's grace knowing that I cannot perfectly fulfill them, but He is slow to anger, quick to forgive, and abounding in steadfast love. Ultimately, I desire to let go of my ideas of control and open my heart to His love. Instead of "manifesting" my will for this life, I want to unite my will with God's will and trust that He is good.

Expect blogs diving deeper into the points mentioned in the future.

Grace, peace, and love.

And the Winner Is....

2011-01-16T20:08:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Marcia--you just won a 4 class pass to Steadfast and True! I drew your name out of a large plastic cup. :o) Contact me for details on setting up your class card.

Warm thanks to everyone who participated in the contest and to all of the new visitors! I hope to have more fun give-aways, so keep following.

And now, back to blogging...

Kind Words from the SIDC

2011-01-13T10:32:00.000-08:00

Thanks Jenny for the sweet post about your experience as my student! Check out the Southern Institute for Domestic Arts and Crafts for creative craft ideas, good shopping tips, and inspiration. I can stand on my head no problem, but sewing not so much. I admire those who can!

One more day left on the free yoga giveaway. Enter here and good luck!

Yoga Giveaway--4 Classes at Steadfast and True

2011-01-12T05:04:00.000-08:00

The Prize

A four-class pass to Steadfast and True Yoga. Any teacher. Any time.

The Rules

New Steadfast and True clients only.
The pass must be for you--it is non-transferable.

How to Enter

Simple! Comment on this post whether or not you have ever taken a yoga class. It can be as brief or as long as you like. Also, leave contact info.

Extra entries for:

Following my blog with google friend connect (current followers will receive an extra entry if you leave a comment)
Following me on twitter @tulaflow

Please comment on this blog to receive extra entries--eg "I'm following tulaflow". The winner will be randomly selected.

Please share this opportunity with friends through your social media outlets. Especially if you live out of town or are a current Steadfast client.

I will take comments through Friday January 14th and announce the winner next week! Good Luck!

Yoga Givaway and Status Updates

2011-01-11T10:12:00.000-08:00

So here's a little ditty. I bought one of the Steadfast and True Groupons and I'm going to give it away on this blog. You must be a new client to Steadfast and True to be eligible. The package includes 4 free classes with any teacher. Choose what fits best with your schedule and preferences. Stay tuned for more details. Tell your friends--free yoga rules it.

There for awhile I felt like I was spamming my own blog with class updates, etc. I'd like to keep relevant and thoughtful content on this blog instead of "teaching tonight at 5:30." That's why I joined twitter! You can follow me on twitter-- @tulaflow or you can look down to the right side bar and see my updates. I promise not to barrage you with quotes from dead people.

With big love,
Wendy

Snow Day!

2011-01-10T06:06:00.000-08:00

Woohoo. I love the south. We shut 'er down if there are a couple of inches of snow. Lots of people complain about this, but I enjoy it. It feels like a celebration--at least in our house. I really like driving in the snow. At the tender age of 16, my Mom took me out in a blizzard to teach me how to drive my '88 Honda Civic in inclement conditions. It was a 2-door hatchback with a four speed manual transmission--almost like a toy, but that little roller skate would plow through the snow. We would beep the horn as we passed 4WD trucks that had slid off the road. Gear down friends. I love my Mom. She's inspired me with her confidence and courage. I also have her mischievous streak. I try to control it, but it pops out occasionally. Especially if a white russian is involved.

Snow days give me the chance to share with my boys what my Mom shared with me. Life brings us a set of circumstances and we can approach it fearfully or with a sense of adventure. If we live in constant anxiety of "what if" we miss out on opportunities for love, laughter, and memories. Of course you have to find the balance because there is a line when adventure seeking becomes half-cocked monkey business. (Hanuman!!) Live boldly, but know when to tread lightly. Bring on the sleigh.

Vinyasa Song

2011-01-07T14:38:00.000-08:00

I had one of those "aha" moments today. I was listening to a beautiful song and was noticing the arrangement -verse/chorus/bridge/verse. The structure is so that each part builds and complements each other so that the listener has a deeper understanding of what the artist is communicating. I realized that I "write" my classes in much of the same way that a songwriter composes a song. I usually have a feeling, idea, theme, or pose that I want to explore so I began building sequences that will move toward the idea. My verses provide the tapas; the bridge focuses on the particular asanas needed to open the body for the culmination in the chorus. There is usually a mood or atmosphere that surrounds the class-- created by me and the group energy.

There is also a strong element of improv in this. Any vinyasa yoga teacher will relate that when a class is planned out, a curve ball will get thrown at you. But this is actually exciting as sometimes you have to change the "words" mid-song. You tune into the class and respond to their energy, but you still play the music.

And like any musician, sometimes you hit a bad note. I wish I could say that every (or any?) class was a symphonic masterpiece, but it's not. Although the actual "experience" is not completely up to me, sometimes the idea or sequencing does not translate. But if we're going for freedom here--which we are--then we are allowed to make mistakes or else we get stagnant, dull, and locked into habit.

Write your song. Make your art. Find out what you got to say and say it.

Mythology Obsesh Continued

2011-01-03T15:57:00.000-08:00

Greek mythology has captured my brain as I have been enjoying Edith Hamilton's Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes. Those Gods are fickle beings--catering to every whim and desire and stirring up havoc in people's lives. They run around like wild-eyed teenagers ignited by the first flames of love, um, lust. Will they ever grow up? Do we want them to?

So far, the most "yogic" tale involves Baucis and Philemon--the elderly couple living in extreme poverty that showed warm hospitality to the Gods. Their love for each other and deep contentment allowed them to show rich benevolence to strangers. They asked the Gods to allow them to die at the same time so that neither one would have to be without the other. As they died, they became trees--an oak and a linden growing from one trunk. Sweet--isn't it?

Most of these stories are raucous tales and even though they were composed centuries ago, they reflect the human condition. As a society we really haven't changed much, but I know we have the desire to transform our hearts and minds. The Greek/Roman Gods were not denied any pleasure, but they were unsatisfied and bored beings. There must be something more than pleasure seeking to bring peace. In fact, in Greek Myth persistent pleasure seeking often brings pain--the same idea is echoed in most spiritual teachings. In Ecclesiastes 2, the writer states:

¹⁰ I denied myself nothing my eyes desired;

   I refused my heart no pleasure.
My heart took delight in all my labor,
   and this was the reward for all my toil.
¹¹ Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done
   and what I had toiled to achieve,
everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind;
   nothing was gained under the sun.

The Greeks, the Jews, (the Americans?) looking for meaning and dissatisfied with their efforts. If we look at Baucis and Philemon, maybe we find that it is not what we do or achieve that brings us peace. It is who we are or who we are becoming. Awakening to this realization is just the beginning.

Hello 2011!

2011-01-01T13:54:00.000-08:00

Hope you brought in 2011 with style. I drank Sierra Nevada, read Greek Mythology, and signed onto Twitter! Yes, yes, for all my talk about facebook, I couldn't really go back there...(or could I?), so it seemed to be a good fit for what I want to do. Which is promote balanced yoga through this blog and my classes. Find my tweets--@tulaflow...

Hope to see you in the new year. Check out my full class schedule.

Without a Mat

2010-12-31T14:58:00.000-08:00

Practice without your mat. See what happens.

Schedules and General Merriment!

2010-12-23T14:23:00.000-08:00

Last night's acrobatic/partner yoga session at Steadfast was so fun!! I went to a acro-workshop a couple of years ago and I liked it alright....but this time it was off the chain. I think the biggest reason was the atmosphere of community. People were just having fun--being safe and playful at the same time. And no egos! More please.

Speaking of Steadfast, I'm moving from Friday nights to Monday at 7:15. Yipee! More details including super awesome class description coming soon. But next week I'm subbing for Brent while he's enjoying the holidaze...here's the subbing schedule:

Monday 7:15 Vinyasa
Wednesday 7:15--Brent teaches "Flight of the Navigator" and you know, I ain't so bad at the floaty float. I think for this one I'll let my east TN gal shine through and call it "Hey Man, Watch This..."

Also, big ol' huge thank you to everyone who donated to the Steadfast Gift Bag Drive. Over 30 bags were collected and lemme say y'all were thoughtful and generous. The gifts were delivered to the Room In The Inn located off of 8th Avenue. Take some time and check out their site. They are an innovative organization offering many ways you can positively impact our city.

Warmest wishes for blessings of hope, joy, and peace in the new year.
Big Love,
Wendy

Holiday Holiyay!

2010-12-20T14:57:00.000-08:00

All I can say is that this has been the most peaceful and enjoyable Christmas season on record. Online shopping may be the key to happy holidays...

Share the love with me tomorrow night at BlossOMing Yoga. 5:45-7. A beautiful studio in East Nashville.

Gift Bags for the Homeless

2010-12-14T19:11:00.000-08:00

Steadfast and True Collecting Gift Bags for the Homeless

Beginning Monday, Steadfast will begin collecting holiday gift bags to donate to a local homeless shelter. The items can be packaged in a paper lunch sack or small holiday gift bag. Items should be small--often the homeless carry everything they own on their person. You can label the bag male, female, or both. Gift ideas include:

travel size soap, shampoo, deodorant, lotion, tooth brush, tooth paste
gift certificates to restaurants
manicure sets
warm socks
phone cards, stationary, stamps

For women specifically--items listed above and:
sanitary items
nail polish
make-up
inexpensive jewelry

We may think items like nail polish seem frivolous, but adding a bit of beauty to someone's day can lift their spirits. It reminds us that all have worth and dignity. For more information and ideas, you can read the article on the Steadfast bulletin board or purchase The Contributor from a local vendor.

The shelters service far more men than women, so please keep that in mind when trying to decide on items to purchase. You can also bring gift bags to me before next Monday and I'll see that they are delivered.

Grace and peace.

Look at the Beautiful

2010-12-13T09:32:00.000-08:00

The title is a direct quote from my youngest son who has the Christmas spirit. Ever since Halloween, he has been begging us to put up a tree. When we finally got our live tree home from the market and began putting lights on it, he said "Look at the beautiful." Kids make the most profound statements in the simplest terms.

He really gets into things. Like all the way. He also has a keen fashion sense.

My oldest has a quieter appreciation for seasonal traditions.

For our family, this has been a joyous Christmas season. Frankly, most of 2010 has been very hard and I'm surprised to see it end on a good note. New teaching opportunities, budding friendships, a promotion for John, and a feeling of solidarity in our family create a atmosphere of celebration.

As I type this, I know that many of our friends are suffering during this season. Christmas has the uncanny ability to magnify painful things in our lives. My intention for the season is to enter in whatever my loved ones are experiencing--suffer with those who are suffering and delight with those who are joyful. And to do this with the trust that God works mysteriously. His ways are not our ways and His thoughts are not our thoughts.

I hope that this Christmas Season brings you joy. But whatever the circumstances in your life, I hope that Christmas brings you peace.

Dancing With Myself

2010-12-09T15:07:00.000-08:00

I made a new Christmas playlist! Billy Idol is not on it and I'm not sure how yogic it is, but I figured what the heck--it's ok to have a little fun sometimes. Actually, it's ok to have alot of fun often! For all of my talk about strength in stillness, I find that lately I'm enjoying spontaneous movement-without regard to symmetry or proper sequencing. I think it's called dance--based on asana, but has some boogie-woogie and hip shakin'. It's free--no rules just expression.

Today this occurred in my living room whilst listening to some traditional and non-traditional Christmas music. I guess the spirit was moving me as I danced into a handstand. 'Cos you know, King David danced his ass off too.

It distills down to freedom--freedom to express yourself without regard to rules or alignment principles. Is it yoga? I don't know and I really don't care about labeling it. Mind, body, and spirit were united in a joyful manner as an expression of praise. And honestly, if you bust that out alone in your living room, then something is working for you. Billy Idol may be your guru.

Tis the Season for Giving!

2010-12-06T14:19:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of BlossOMing Yoga:
STUDIO CELEBRATION - We are celebrating our one year anniversary (a little late)!
Saturday, December 11th - come celebrate with us - 2 FREE CLASSES!

Our regularly scheduled 12 PM yoga class will be offered for free. Then Jackie, our ballet teacher, will be offering a free Adult Ballet class. Come to one class or stay for both, we will have light snacks and refreshments afterwards. Just show up, no need to reserve a space!

12:00 to 1:15 PM - Hatha/Flow - Level 1 - Colleen
2:00 to 3:00 PM - Adult Ballet - All levels - Jackie

Yay for free yoga and for new opportunities! I begin teaching at BlossOMing Yoga on Tuesday December 14th at 5:45-7. Tula Flow!

Tula Flow!

2010-12-04T19:27:00.000-08:00

At the encouragement of some awesome friends, I now own the Tulaflow.com domain! You can still get to this site from the blogspot address, but now it's like for real. Or something like that.

Speaking of awesome friends, I sure am lucky to have them. I've been given lots of good gifts through yoga, but the lately the ones I treasure most are the friendships being made. When I first began my practice, it was just me and my mat working out some stuff. But now, I feel like the practice encompasses so many others outside of myself--including my students, my peers, and my teachers. And my life feels richer because of them.

Aw, This Makes Me Happy

2010-12-03T07:44:00.000-08:00

I feel like celebrating today! I don't know why. It's been a weird week and my mood pendulum has been swinging. I may be a bit "hormony"--as the Stratford High School students say. But I'm rolling with the punches and busting out some of my favorite poses in my classes today. Come join me or do something that brings you joy.

Free Yoga This Saturday!

2010-11-26T12:51:00.000-08:00

Saturday. 9AM. Lululemon. Free class. It's about balance.

Man on Wire

Detox to Retox Playlist

2010-11-20T18:18:00.000-08:00

I've had a few people ask me about the play list from last night. I gotta be honest, I put a lot of hard work into it. I don't play music during my personal practice, so making play lists is harder than planning the asanas. But, I love to have some Dre in the mix because he knows how to relax. :o)

Artist/Title

Air/Alone in Kyoto

Dr. Dre/The Message Instrumental

Mad Professor/Cleansing Dub

The Flaming Lips/What is the Light?

The Brian Jonestown Massacre/Super Sonic

Spiritualized/Lay Back in the Sun

My Bloody Valentine/Soon

Sinead O'Connor/Curly Locks

The Flaming Lips/All We Have is Now

Sonic Youth/Do You Believe in Rapture?

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds/Love Letter

Spiritualized/All of My Tears--Spread Your Wings---Pure Phase

AND Ashley Thomas singing her own song for savasana. We were blessed by her voice.

Joy Joy Joy

2010-11-20T14:51:00.000-08:00

So I guess I should take a moment to explain the post from late last night! Sometimes words just aren't enough. And if you've been nipping at the firewater they are hard to find. haha. Between the awesome energy of the class, meeting up with good friends from way back, my amazing husband, and the sonic assault of Grinderman, I had a spectacular time. Truly, truly one of my favorite times in recent history.

I'm finding that lately I am surrounded by amazing people with super-special gifts. Old and new friends are bringing so much love into my life that I'm a bit dazzled. It feels like a season of celebration and hope and I don't want it to pass without giving a note of thanksgiving.

Thank you friends. I love you all.

Tonight!!

2010-11-19T06:29:00.000-08:00

So I'm totally excited about teaching the free class tonight at Steadfast and True. But, I'm even more stoked about seeing Grinderman after the class. Nick Cave, sigh. What is there to say except that his work is in my top 5, possibly top 2 favorites of all time. And Warren Ellis is winning a place in my heart with his manic beard and roman centurion costume. This stuff is crazy.

So date night for the approaching mid-life counter-cultural rockers who still don't jive with most contemporary music. I'm thinking about taking my copy of King Ink and trying to have it signed. Again.

Friday Night and Other Events!

2010-11-18T06:02:00.000-08:00

Twisty Tree photo by John

This Friday, November 19th at Steadfast and True Yoga, I am teaching a special class sponsored by Lululemon called Detox for Retox. This free class begins at 5:30 and will incorporate strong breath-work, heat-building and twisting asanas. After the class, Lululemon is treating us to appetizers and margaritas from Taco Mamacita. Come for the yoga or the party!

The Friday after Thanksgiving I’m teaching a detox class from 12:30-1:45 at Steadfast and True. Come enjoy a strong practice to facilitate deep release.

On Saturday November 27th at 9am, I am teaching another free class at the Lululemon Store. The class description follows:

Tula~(Sanskrit for balance) Happiness is not a matter of intensity but of balance, order, rhythm, and harmony. -Thomas Merton This class will focus on balancing strength with gentleness, movement with stillness, and intensity with release. We will cultivate presence and composure through balancing postures and translate the physical practice into inner realms.

See you soon!!

Target Heart Rates? Really?

2010-11-16T14:01:00.000-08:00

Gads. I really try to make this blog about what I'm for instead of what I'm against. But this randomly came up in class today and I think it's worth discussing. I have a heart rate monitor that I received for Christmas in 2001. I used that gadget in spin, kickboxing, running, and all of those aerobic and strength building endeavors. Based on my age and fitness level, it calculated how many calories I burned, heartbeats per minute, fat burning zones, and included an anaerobic alarm..

I completely understand the use of these devices for athletic training. That science escapes me, but obviously there is something to it. Marathon and triathlon athletes see great gains in their sport as they utilize monitors in training programs.

But doesn't it seem weird that we strap on these electronic devices to tell us how we are doing? It feels like a huge disconnect from our bodies as we glance at wrist watches to see if it is time to throw up. And seriously, throwing up shouldn't be a part of any fitness program, but I guess that's another blog.

The truth is, we are already great at distancing ourselves from our bodies. Life is hard and we feel this pain wrapped up in our skin, so we find ways to avoid the aches. Heart rate monitors do not cause this, but maybe they are a symbol of how we don't know what the hell is going on inside ourselves.

Should I run because it makes me healthy, strong, and free or because I kept it in the 75% zone for 45 minutes? For some people both scenarios are at work simultaneously. But, there are many of us who don't know how to exist in our bodies in a pleasurable way. It's scary for good reason.

Thankfully yoga provides us the forms to reconnect body, breath, mind, spirit. No guarantees it will happen, but the odds are very, very, good. It happened to me when I wasn't expecting it and I thought it ruined my life. As I started inhabiting my body with greater awareness, I had to confront old wounds that I buried deep in the recesses of memory. And even though it was one of the most painful times of my life, I was finally able to find healing. This required help from a qualified therapist and some solid friendships, so if this is happening to you, don't go at it alone.

Damn, I derailed on this one. Didn't mean to go there from target heart rates, but so be it. The bottom line is that we can be afraid to know ourselves. There are scary places in our souls that push us away from self-realization. But fear is not from God and the light must shine into the darkness to free us from the weight. This requires courage, a desire to know truth, and assurance of grace. They haven't invented a spiritual heart monitor that can do that. Yet.

Detox for Retox November 19th

2010-11-10T14:41:00.000-08:00

Through cellular respiration, our bodies naturally convert nutrients into energy and release toxins. In this class, we will bolster the body’s innate functions through strong breath-work, heat building and twisting asanas. We will examine what it means to detox our inner being by encouraging awareness of the present to create space for the mind and spirit to rejuvenate. And the Retox brings the balance with a good dose of fun!

Friday November 19th
5:30
Steadfast and True Yoga
FREE!!!

Let Go

2010-11-08T18:21:00.000-08:00

There are different types and levels of letting go of something that may be cluttering our inner being. Sometimes, these ideas, goals, or situations may be good things, but they can imprison us by causing us to serve them instead of seeking peace.

A short term example of letting go is when you are in conflict with someone. Perhaps in your meditation or prayer you consciously allow the tangled thoughts to escape. There may be quite a bit of mental chattering, but hopefully the mind and spirit will come to stillness. The stillness brings space and refreshment to a weary mind. As your meditation ends, you go about your day. You have not decided to abandon the conflict. But hopefully by God's grace, you have found a stronger, more peaceful means for reconciliation. At the least, you taste a bit of relief from a heavy burden.

Letting go can also be applied to the path you travel in your life. This is where we practice uniting our will with that of God by moving from controlling to receiving. Instead of being determined to achieve, perform, or obtain something we allow ourselves to believe that God abundantly gives us what we need. We change our motivation from self-determination to self-denial. It feels like death because it is. Dying to self clears the clutter to allow God's presence to permeate our being more fully. We are freed from the prisons that our desires can build.

A note about human desire. God gives us passions, desires, and talents to create a beautiful life. Through these gifts, we can celebrate God's goodness. We do not have to live an austere life to find God's will. But we avoid glorifying the created instead of the creator and we find our contentment through His pleasure. The prisons are built when we become consumed with making our wants the focus of our existence instead His peace.

Letting go to find peace. Dying to find life. Thankfully it's a lifelong practice.

My Pumpkins

2010-10-30T14:42:00.000-07:00

This is my husband John being completely awesome in so many ways. Where should I start? The lotus pose you say? Ok. Well, yep that's him rocking lotus and gyan mudra after he carved an "om" into a pumpkin. We had personal pumpkins this year because we believe you can have it your way.

And these are my boys with the personal pumpkins. The oldest drew the design on the white pumpkin and the one resembles the cover of "Bad Moon Rising" by Sonic Youth. Coincidence? Absolutely not. And yes, those are Black Flag bars on John's masterpiece. I've yet to make a SST yoga mix, but if you want to hear something like that you can check out Needles and Pins.

We found it interesting how John's pumpkin design is completely straight and mine is curvy. Indicative of our personalities? Oh heck maybe if you are into pumpkin astrology. Which we ain't.

Happy Halloween!

Surgery Update

2010-10-27T15:01:00.000-07:00

My son is doing really well and we are so thankful for the many prayers and support.

Grace and peace.
Philippians 4:8

Tender Mercies

2010-10-26T12:10:00.000-07:00

I took my boys to a sweet friend's house for a birthday party yesterday. It was a perfect autumn afternoon with the kids playing outside waiting on the magician to set up for the festivities. Within moments my afternoon turned from friendly pleasantries to deep concern and strategic planning as my my oldest son fell off the monkey bars and fractured his arm.

Back up to this weekend and hopefully this antidote will circle around in a bit. I attended a lovely yoga class by the author of Bring Home the Bliss. Her intention for the class was the conscious mind can only process one thought at a time, so make it a positive one.

Yesterday, my conscious mind was in survival or momma bear mode. The thought pattern is neutral and instinctual as it serves to preserve life. Yet, I felt this overwhelming sense of peace. As I thought about it today I realized that my spirit reacted to support my being in survival mode. And even though my conscious thoughts were occupied around getting to the hospital, navigating through the procedures, and comforting my child, my spirit was praying and connecting with God. And in these moments of potential panic, I was definitely not alone. That peace spread to both of my sons, the one in pain and the little one who I was asking a lot of to accompany us to the ER.

We are scheduled for surgery tomorrow morning to place pins in his elbow. The last 24 hours have been intense, but I have found myself thanking God for many things that would normally go unnoticed. I would like to ask you, if you are so inclined, to pray for healing, strength, and peace in our family. I would also like to remind all of us to consciously be thankful. Even if you are struggling to find something to be thankful for.

Nataraja Asana

2010-10-24T13:43:00.000-07:00

To be honest, I'm a little uninspired as a writer lately. And I'm in a bit of a dry spell in my practice. Related? Probably. It will work its way out. But here is a little number from my back porch today. I really want to to dance, I just need to find the music.

Ardha Baddha Chandrasana

2010-10-17T13:38:00.000-07:00

Bind and Ground


Bound Half Moon

My favorite place in the world to practice is my back porch. I'm thankful for the warm fall to extend my outdoor practice. I'm definitely not working up the sweat I did this summer, but I'm loving it all the same. The heat is replaced by coolness, the hum of the air unit by natural ambient noises, and sweaty muscles by brisk awareness. Each season has unique gifts that we can enjoy and learn from.

To celebrate the last days of my favorite place to practice, I got the hubby to snap some photos of my current favorite pose. I've actually been working on it most of the summer, so it seems to be a nice exit to the inside practice space.

A brief explanation why this is my current favorite. I love how aligned and grounded you have to be--you cannot move anywhere in this form if you are not solid. The bind means you are willingly choosing a challenge. The anchoring, unity, and strength all exist so the lifted leg can fly. And so while lately, I am finding solidarity in my practice, there is still part of me that craves lightness and playfulness.

I feel like something is pulling me off of the ground just enough so that I'm solid, but I don't sink.

Grasshopper

2010-10-16T15:13:00.000-07:00

Working into grasshopper isn't as tough as it appears. It's really about the twist and the physics of placing the foot in the correct place on the arm. The pose falls into place once those elements are organized.

Midwife Yoga

2010-10-12T14:27:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to teach yoga to a group of midwives this weekend at the MANA Conference. I hope that I can give back a little something to them in appreciation for the birth experience I had with my second son. The Vanderbilt Nurse Midwives are a wonderful, supportive group of women who cultivate trust between mother and midwife as well as trust in yourself. They are intuitive, compassionate, and caring. They support natural childbirth from the first visit to delivery, but are able to meet the needs of the mother if medication or intervention is required. Quite simply, they're the bomb and if you are searching for a skilled midwifery practice then check them out.

Deactivate

2010-10-11T18:51:00.000-07:00

I hopped off the facebook plane. Again. I did this about a year or so ago for several months and rejoined after I felt isolated from the friends who I had daily contact with. I don't know what I expected. When you actively participate in social media, you efficiently communicate how and what you are doing with your people. Why would you send an extra e-mail or actually call someone?

For some time, I've been thinking about the dynamics of facebook. It's kinda like Wal-Mart. A one-stop shop for all of your friends and interests. Heck, you don't even have to bother to surf the web, it just washes right up on your home page. Individual (indie??) websites are secondary to a facebook page and unless you want to buy something, what's the purpose of leaving facebook? Pics, blogs, videos, opinions, and people's lives are all there.

I don't know, I guess I'm old fashioned, but something started to feel wrong to me. Advertisements, notifications, and frequently checking in created more distraction in my already busy life. I don't need any more help with going off on tangents.

And to be brutally honest and a bit ugly here, I'm wondering what we are more interested in: our friends' postings, or their responses to our status, pics, blog, or whatever. Whoa, that's a painful realization. Social narcissism. Maybe that's the real hook with facebook. The genius behind the whole thing knew that we could not get enough of us.

Yogasana Evolution Continued

2010-10-09T08:25:00.000-07:00

Yoga Body by Mark Singleton provides some interesting fact-checking for our yogasana evolution. Mark, a gifted writer and an Ashtangi currently practicing the 3rd series ( so yes, he's got yoga cred), investigated the postural origins of the practice. His research sheds new light on the conceptions of the postural practice and apparently is well-documented. To be honest, I have only read the article he authored in Yoga Journal and many reviews of the book, but I have yet to read a counterpoint review blasting his facts.

The basic tenets of the book:

Asana is rarely, if ever, mentioned as the primary feature of significant yoga traditions. Asana is subordinate to pranayama, dharana (concentration), and nada (sound).
In the early decades of the 20th Century, India was struggling for national independence. Building better bodies would increase chances of success in a violent struggle with colonists. Physical fitness programs combining european primitive gymnastics and wrestling techniques were developed.
Often, the name given to strength building techniques was "yoga". Some teachers traveled around the country to train people in these techniques for a revolution against the British. They disguised themselves as yoga gurus and religious ascetics to avoid attention of authorities.
Later, Krishnamacharya, the father of modern yoga and a devout Hindu who was sympathetic to the needs of the day, innovated new forms of asana intended for India's youth. His students include Iyengar, Pattabhi Jois, and Indra Devi.

Mark suggests that many modern yoga practitioners are embracing spiritual gymnastics that originated about a century ago, instead of medieval hatha yoga. So what does this mean?

If this is true, and I believe it is, then the yogasana most of us (I know there are exceptions) are practicing are a result of political factions hijacking spirituality to further their cause. Sounds like a familiar scenario we have in the west. Although, the brilliant combination of meditation and asana perhaps created stronger, more balanced people instead of war ready youth. Krishnamacharya was probably keen to this insight.

Christians, Jews, Muslims, Atheists, and anyone concerned about worshiping Hanuman while in a split can take a deep breath. A ujjayi breath even. While I could write a persuasive argument without the discovery by Singleton, I think this finding bolsters the asana practice for everyone. So is there a point when someone with a different spiritual viewpoint needs to back off?

As a Christian, my spiritual perspective is different than those described in the yoga sutras. I can appreciate the beauty and the common truths within these texts, but I have the freedom to believe in a different path. The yoga sutras are considered transformational by their students and for some essential for the practice. In my experience, transformation occurs by the spirit of Christ and through Bible study, prayerful meditation, and community. To be quite frank, yogasana isn't necessary for that. Plenty of people are renewed and are being made holy without ever stepping on a yoga mat.

So why yogasana? I'm obviously a fan or I wouldn't spend so much time practicing, teaching, and writing about yoga. As a physical discipline, yogasana cultivates stillness and awareness to the present moment. Practicing this discipline in a tangible physical sense translates to the mental/emotional, and spiritual realms as well. The physical discipline isn't limited to yogasana. Plenty of runners describe their practice as a spiritual experience. I haven't heard an outcry against running which is probably the most ancient "sport" known. Other practices such as rock climbing and obviously martial arts have a similar spiritual atmosphere. For me, my discipline is yogasana and I'm thankful to God for it. I'm excited to see where it will go next.

Evolution

2010-09-28T17:37:00.000-07:00

Awhile back, I blogged on traditional yoga and the blends or evolution of yogasana. You can read it here. I've been taking a simple approach in my teaching lately--no crazy-ass flows or tweaky variations because I think we need it. I think we may be buying into this short attention-span culture and giving them what they want instead of what is needed. We're afraid if we don't spice it up they'll get bored and quit coming. Honestly, if someone is checking out in virabdrasana 2 before the 4th breath, then there is an issue that needs to be addressed. Maybe they need to practice concentration or perhaps they are afraid to be still and know themselves--a very real and common fear.

And so while my practice and teaching is a bit more grounded, it still doesn't fit in the traditional methodologies. I believe yogasana should and will continue to evolve, but here is what struck me like a lightning bolt. Meditation doesn't have to. The searching of the soul--the quiet introspection and connection with the Divine--how do we evolve this process? We don't. We can fortify it with study of scripture, but it exists in stillness. The eternal soul seeks to unite, to be yoked, with God who I believe is never-changing. It is we who ebb and flow within his presence. There is a place in our spirit that longs to be occupied by God, but the messy ego, I-self, humanity or whatever you want to call it gets in the way and tries find things to fill God's place. These things will never satisfy and most theologies teach constant pleasure seeking will ultimately bring us pain.

So this evolution of yoga, this practice in the west has space for growth, but there is ample opportunity for pollution. As our lives in this culture change, I encourage us to use yoga to create balance and harmony in our lives, not mimic the chaos.

Yoga Class

2010-09-24T19:22:00.000-07:00

Groups of yoga students led by a teacher. Is it yoga? Strictly speaking, Iyengar says no. In class you are learning from the teacher and are influenced by charisma, group energy, atmosphere, and perhaps ego. You try follow to the best of your ability. At home, or in self practice, you are the teacher and the progress you make is profound. Subtleties such as the inner voice guiding you instead of an audible cue assist the senses to draw inward. Concentration, intuition, and self-trust are cultivated. Iyengar says about home practice, "This is not yoga by the body for the body, but yoga by the body for the mind, for the intelligence."

We can make the time to become our own teacher. Use tools such as books and group classes to inspire and supplement your practice. Taking your practice into your own hands and making it yours is priceless. That is yoga.

Bold or Stupid. It's a Fine Line.

2010-09-15T16:24:00.000-07:00

I took a chance and it paid off. I was fed up with certain circumstances and decided not to live in fear of the "what if?" So I stood strong and held my ground on what I felt was best for my family. I let go of intellectual reasoning and followed my heart. I got a better deal than expected! Wow!

I know it doesn't always work that way. Sometimes you give your blood, sweat, and tears and there is no "payoff". Or is there? Yes, if we focus on the process not the end result. Dedication and self-sacrifice produce character if we keep thankful hearts and do not let bitterness take root. The most amazing art is made from pure intent with expectations pushed aside.

But if we are honest, we do expect something for our efforts. Too often I treat God like a cosmic cash machine--if I pray enough, praise more, say the right words with correct intent, quit cussing (if you know me, you know there is room for improvement), or become more pious, He's gonna send the blessings down. And the blessings are defined by me.

I'm learning something the hard way. God really isn't interested in making me comfortable. God wants to build my character. At times, His blessings may seem like curses because I don't understand his purposes. They're bigger than me and involve the unseen realm. They may affect people I'll never meet. But somewhere in my heart, He's planted a seed of trust in His goodness and His ways.

Plateau

2010-09-07T18:49:00.000-07:00

Oh plateau, the dreaded flatness of it all. We always want to be going up or down, never just cruising along. Weight plateau, running time plateau, yoga plateaus--all usually met with grimace. But I'm finding out something really cool about the horizontal plane. It's where the discipline takes hold. When there is no sizzle of a new inversion, no fireworks in meditation, and your practice is a bit dry, you go deeper into what you know. You begin to push expectations aside and find contentment in familiar shapes and spaces. Your foundation and awareness grow stronger by working within the boundaries and at some point you find that you've progressed. These strides may be found through greater acceptance, detachment to an ideal, or perhaps a new asana unfolds. You are still moving.

Stillness

2010-09-01T18:28:00.000-07:00

photo by john in caye caulker--"go slow"

About a year or so ago, I realized something horrible. I was jam packing my practice sessions with mucho asanas in order to" progress". In fact, my yoga practice was beginning to resemble my life in that it was busy, hurried, and lacked attention to detail. At times, it was stressful and produced anxiety. I'm not sure when the "aha" moment was, but at some point I realized that something had to give and I began to slow down. One practice I simply repeated Surya A as slow as I possibly could by consciously lengthening the breath. In other practices, I simply held foundational poses for long periods of time. The joy and relief were immense.

Today I practiced for almost an hour. Only 2 poses--sukhasana meditation and savasana.

In the past I was working toward a certain ideal and now I'm embracing it completely: do less and accomplish more. I'm trying to cultivate this in my practice and etch it into all facets of my life. I'll let you know how it works out.

Backbends

2010-08-24T13:47:00.000-07:00

photo by marcia truitt

Backbends are powerful. They energize, open the heart, and provide release. Sometimes they affect you in ways you don't expect. Last week, I was practicing and having a fine time. I was in the groove and things were linking up creatively. As I was winding down for savasana, I had this strong impulse to practice backbends. My inner dialogue was chattering because I felt that in a "proper" sequence I should have already added some curve to the spine and I was gearing down--not going up. But the idea kept nagging at me, so I stood up and dropped back a couple of times. On the last rise up I was overwhelmed with emotion and it wasn't pleasant. I was bummed because I felt I had just harshed my vibe from a fun practice.

I settled down in savasana and the "stuff" was bubbling up. The sub-conscious was yelling to the conscious and there was no stopping it. And so I didn't try. Somewhere in that time I fell into stillness and sensed a whisper reminding me that perfect love, holy love, drives out fear. The peace was so sweet and worth the turmoil to find it.

A few lessons from this experience. 1. The body's intelligence is very intuitive and it is worth trying to tune in. 2. Break the rules. 3. Do not fear the "stuff." God's love will fortify you and bring you peace.

Gifts

2010-08-23T15:00:00.000-07:00

Students give me gifts--most of time they are unaware of it, but every now and then they are actual objects. I recently subbed a class at the Downtown Y. I had never taught this particular flow class before and wasn't sure of the level. I eyeballed the students and watched their patterns before class. Hmm--guessing gentle yoga flow and I was correct. They were so sweet to thank me for subbing and to ask where else I teach. This is especially kind, because sometimes when you sub, the students can be a bit resentful that their teacher isn't there. I understand--I have felt this way in the past, but now I love it when a new face comes into a familiar class.

One of the ladies was confident and strong in class and I asked her how long she had been practicing. "8 years. The first time I did a headstand I was 60." Wow. I mean wow. She's my hero. I occasionally question if I'm expanding my boundaries or just being stupid. I wonder if she thought that too. Anyway, I love that she pushed it all aside and lived in that moment. At that particular time, the headstand was available and she knew it was hers. And her story was a gift to me.

I also had a new experience with a South Asian student. I have never taught anyone from India and I entertained the thought that the rubber was about to hit the road. Now, I know that all Indians do not practice yoga--that's just a silly perception we have in the west. After class he asked me where I went to school. I kinda laughed because I have been out of school for a long time, but I told him. He looked puzzled and asked me where I was from. "You sound British. Not like anyone else around here. Maybe it's the Appalachians." We all put up the props and as I was leaving he was standing by the door. "Here!" he said as he reached into his bag and pulled out a beautiful loaf of artisan bread-- "Enjoy!" I looked him in the eye and thanked him. Something told me to accept it with gratitude. And his bread was a gift to me.

Steadfast and True Studio Pictures

2010-08-20T05:22:00.000-07:00

This is the walk up to the studio!

Gillie posted some more pictures of the studio. Be sure to find us on facebook!

Space

2010-08-16T17:15:00.000-07:00

Do you wonder why yoga teachers are obsessed with creating space? Most of us are trying to take up less of it, so why does that "create space" phrase pop up so frequently?

Iyengar writes in Light on Life that "Space is emblematic of freedom, the freedom that only space allows for movement, for is not change itself a movement?" He compares the amount of matter inside of an atom to a tennis ball in a cathedral--so atoms, nature, and our bodies are mostly space.

Let's zoom out of the cellular level and visit the theory of dark matter. Dark matter refers to non-luminous matter particles whose presence is suggested because of the gravitational effects on the rotation rate of visible matter such galaxies and the presence of clusters of galaxies. In simplistic terms, the stuff between the stuff.

Inner and outer space sustaining and influencing matter. The invisible surrounding the visible. That gives me chills. As a believer, I like to roll around the possibility that space is uncreated. It is without form or bounds. It penetrates all matter from the smallest known particle to the vast reaches of the universe. It exists in our breath.

Back to yoga class. Moving the matter out of the way so the expansion of space can allow for change. Shifting the focus from the seen to the unseen. Making way for freedom.

Choose to Love

2010-08-01T12:46:00.000-07:00

Love is truth and truth does not disguise an enemy as a friend. Or tell you something doesn’t hurt. Or deny struggle, suffering, and evil.

Truth, love, shines light into the darkness and exposes wrongs. Love, truth, is painful and doesn’t permit you to avoid it. It asks you to experience it fully.

Truth, love, may break your heart. Love, truth, binds it together. The scars tell the story of a tender heart. The heart that is brave enough to love, the heart that can’t help but love.

Holy love, holy truth allows your broken heart to forgive. The pain is real, the suffering long, but the debt has been paid. The offender is free to find love, truth. And you are free.

Contemplation on 1 Peter 4:8

Kefir People

2010-07-28T18:55:00.000-07:00

My students have already heard me sing the praises of kefir in class and so I'll do it here. Kefir milk improves digestion, provides 30% of your daily value of calcium, and 28% of your daily value of protein. Now this is not scientific, but since I've been drinking kefir, I've noticed that my hormones seem a bit more level during those moon phases too.

From Lifeway Kefir's site:

Some of the findings so far have indicated that the bacteria in kefir help:

Traveler's diarrhea(6), viral diarrhea in children and Irritable Bowel Syndrome(7) or IBS
Prevent vaginal yeast infections(8)
Boost the immune system(9)
Reduce the risk of heart disease by reducing cholesterol(10)
Reduce the symptoms of food allergies such as lactose intolerance (11)
Suppress the development of certain cancers, such as bladder or colon cancer(12)

So, lots of documented benefits and it tastes good. Some lactose intolerant people digest it pretty easily. I like the plain variety over my granola, but if I'm drinking it straight up I go for one of the flavored smoothie types. Speaking of smoothies, it's great in the magic bullet--which I am not embarrassed to admit that I own.

And of course this got my brain churning. We in the west are plagued with digestive disorders and various lifestyle diseases. Could it be conveniences such as refrigeration are making us unhealthy? People began fermenting food to preserve it and therefore cultivating all these beneficial bugs for our intestines. Should we leave the cheese out longer? Oh wait, it's pasteurized.

Unalienable Rights

2010-07-21T18:29:00.000-07:00

I don't agree with the Declaration of Independence. Not entirely. Specifically the unalienable right to pursue happiness. Ack--I know that's harsh and I'm not against being happy. I love happiness and joy, but just to pursue happiness seems shallow. Happiness and suffering happen, they are not a right. Both exist at the same time, although different seasons have the emphasis on one or the other. To be quite honest, I'm suffering right now and happiness seems like a long distance romance. We'll see each other again, but not for some time.

Pursuing liberty--now that's an unalienable right, but it is not defined by external rules or governments. True freedom comes from grace. Grace from God which cleanses our souls and purifies our inmost being. Freeing us of our past, giving us clarity in the present, and hope for the future. Sounds nice, eh? There's a hard side too. True freedom comes at a price and often a very painful one. Not only that, another person's freedom may come through your pain. And while most of me resents the deep sorrow I'm experiencing, there is a whisper, a hint, that there is a greater good in all of this. There is even a deeper understanding of Christ's love on a microscopic scale. And for now, this moment, that brings me peace.

Backbending Handstand Vinyasa Yoga

2010-07-18T10:47:00.000-07:00

Personal Practice

2010-07-17T20:04:00.001-07:00

Here's a bit on my home practice. In the summer, it is a very early morning back porch adventure. I practice the primary series once or twice a week. The primary series is liberating because I don't have to think about what is coming next. From this and other foundational traditions, I find inspiration to create sequences for my other sessions. This satisfies my creative side and allows me to practice intuitively. Often, a variation of one of my practices becomes a class sequence.

I love solitary practice. It's the place where I connect, release, and move with my own rhythm. It's where I feel lightness and energized. It's my bliss, man. Although I wish I could have someone adjust me while I practice on my own. That's called private sessions.

Classical, New Wave, or Both?

2010-06-22T14:08:00.000-07:00

If you're reading this blog,then you're probably into yoga and more than likely aware of distinctions in yoga traditions. I, too, am aware of the clash of the yoga titans and want to share my experience.

I started practicing at home with "Yoga, the Iyengar Way" and gradually began studying books by Donna Fahri, Judith Lasiter, and Eric Schiffman. I loved the "presciptions" for daily practices--sometimes sending out energy and sometimes pulling it in. The practices were pretty static and focused on alignment, strength, flexibility, and patience. At that point in my life, I was craving stillness and I found relief in the defined space of yoga mat. I always felt that tuning into your daily needs and using yoga to create balance was a beneficial practice, but what I didn't realize was that I was missing the fire.

And then there was Ashtanga. I had been visiting Iyengar and Vinyasa studios to support my home practice and had found a teacher that I really liked. Except she told me to quit coming to her class and go to the Saturday Ashtanga class.

Wowee Zowee. I didn't know what had hit me. And I loved it and kept going back for more. I knew the Ashtanga series would not be my every day practice, but I took the heat, the breath, and the bandha work home with me.

And so, like many other teachers I began blending the styles and utilizing elements from the traditions that I enjoyed or challenged me. It was an organic fusion that I could explore and grow in.

Now, I know the purists balk at this approach. They believe this bastardization of the styles taught in studios everywhere is dancey acrobatics and not yoga. The influence of western culture has devalued the pure intent of historic yoga lineages. They have a valid point. I have taken classes by fitness teachers who didn't have a traditional foundation and it was obvious. But guess what--like it or not, we live in western culture. Even the counter culture is defined by the culture. You cannot escape it, so what do we do?

See, for all of it's pitfalls like lifestyle disease, apathy, and consumerism, the west ain't all bad. We were founded on freedom and I still feel that thread in our cultural fabric. It's what keeps the kids making good rock 'n roll, brings diversity to communities, and inspires us to use our skills and education to make things work for the greater good.

Western influence on yoga doesn't have to be all negative. We can plant our foundations in tradition and fearlessly allow them to grow into new shapes and ideas. We are shaped by the past, but it doesn't have to define the present. Isn't that a yogic point?