#365Yoga Day 100 - YOGAVILLE

Yes, you read that right - Yogaville.  For those of you not familiar with the Satchidananda Ashram please check it out here:  http://www.yogaville.org/.  This past weekend was my fourth visit, but my first workshop.  And what a workshop.  I had the honor of spending three days with Cyndi Lee!!!  What an amazing experience.  I was first introduced to Cyndi's work over 10 years ago from my very first teacher.  My teacher actually had to order my Om Yoga box for me because that was in the age before Amazon!!  So I credit Cyndi with starting my home practice. Without her I don't know that it would have taken off like it did.  Please check out Cyndi and all that Om Yoga has to offer.  I hope to take another workshop with her in the year or so.

Namaste'

#365Yoga Day 91 - Going deeper

This week I have really delve into yogic philosophy.  I started reading the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and find it fascinating.  I was under the impression that most texts on yoga followed the precepts set down by Patanjali.  The Pradipika clearly discounts the yamas and niyamas as needing to be done first and states that "experience has taught us that in order to practice yama and niyama, discipline and self-control, a certain quality of mind is needed.....therefore, before you try to practice self-discipline and self-control, you must also prepare yourself."  I'm looking forward to reading more and learning how to clear the pranas and control the mind.

I'll keep you posted on what I learn!
Namaste'

#365Yoga Day 90 - Back on the mat

It's been a tough two weeks in terms of my practice.  I did not get on the mat last week because of the all the chatter in my head.  Instead I sought solace on my meditation cushion and focused on the 7th limb of yoga.  It has worked wonders.  I have found my asana practice again and I think going forward it's going to be better than ever.  I am releasing all expectations in terms of what poses I can get into and how long I practice.  I plan to make a date with my mat and just move.  Move however my body tells me to and use my breath to guide me.  I'm excited to get started!  Too bad I have to work!

I hope everyone is doing well and geared up for Spring!

Oh.....and even though I'm not a huge basketball fan I have to say a big GO TEAM to the VCU Rams (rcvd my graduate degree from VCU) as they head into the Final Four!

Namaste'

#365Yoga Day 81 - DONE!!!

Well I've officially completed the YogaWorks 200 hour Teacher Training program.  To say I'm happy to be done is an understatement!  What an amazing experience.  I learned so much about yoga and myself over these past seven months.  One thing I learned is that I'm not interested in teaching.  I didn't think that was the path for me seven months ago (but I was open to it) and now I'm sure.  But this has been a great ride and I certainly know a lot more about yoga postures than I ever thought possible.  Thank you to all of you who sent me well wishes over the past seven months.  Your support has been appreciated!

Namaste'

#365Yoga Day 74

I've been trying to find some peace and tranquility these past few days but let's face it, I'm stressed!  And I find it funny to be stressed about YOGA.  Does that make sense?  Not really.  I'm anxious because this coming weekend is my last teacher training weekend and I have a 2 hour in class final AND I have to teach a pose to the group.  It's moments like this that I sooo wish I wasn't a typical Type A Personality.  But I'm not, so I have to deal with it.  My goal for the week (in addition to practicing my teaching script out loud) is to meditate. Sit, sit and sit some more.  So far I'm off to a good start.  

Please send good thoughts for a successful weekend!

Namaste'

#365Yoga Day 69

We are not human beings trying to be spiritual.  

We are spiritual beings trying to be human.

Jacquelyn Small

#365Yoga Day 68

Oh my....I think I looked a little like this sweetie pie this morning.  But my new deal is that no matter how grumpy, tired, pissed off or sore I am I'm stilling going to get on the mat and move.  Even if I just stand there and swing my arms and breathe I'm going to give myself credit for showing up.  That has been my routine this week and I believe my mornings have been better as a result.  And letting go for just a few minutes and getting out of my head really helps.  Just one of the many reasons I love yoga.

I hope everyone had a peace filled day.

Namaste'