Day Twenty Seven

I am now a certified yoga instructor!  

It all seems very surreal and yet extremely satisfying to know that I have accomplished this goal that I originally set in February of this year. I remember handing over my check to the front desk for tuition fees and thinking to myself, "Well, this is it, no turning back now."  And then there were the dreadful moments leading up to my two weeks notice at the research company I worked for.  I was extremely nervous that my  directional change in career wouldn't be supported by my boss and co-workers.  Luckily, I was fortunate enough to have superiors who understood why I was taking this leap and instead of doubting my success they encouraged me to follow my heart.


Writing this blog has also helped me understand more about who I am and what I have gained from this training.  When I first thought of starting my blog it was mostly a way to share my experience with my mom and dad who I knew would be curious as to what I was doing "in the yoga."  What is has become is more than I could have ever asked for - the support and comments from everyone including those of you from the Huntington Beach Hot Yoga community kept me motivated.


Tomorrow is my first practice class at 9 am!  Nothing like diving in and going straight for it.  I'm excited and nervous but not because I'm worried about making a mistake, but because it means so much to me to have this opportunity.  I am so proud of all the teacher trainers who graduated with me and know that they will continue to be successful in their practice and in teaching. 

Thank you again to everyone who has encouraged me along this journey.  If there is anything I have learned is it to live in the now and trust yourself in following your passion.  As is said at the end of each class, Namaste (my soul bows to your soul).


_Peace and Love   

Day Twenty Six

Today we had the opportunity to visit the Lake Shrine on Sunset Blvd in Malibu.  Since most of us opted to take the 6 am class instead of having to come back and do the 4:30 pm class, it was an early morning and one that my body did not entirely appreciate at that hour.  But, it was well worth the effort since we were able to get up there and enjoy the calmness before most visitors started to arrive.  Here are some pictures from our trip:

There was something very humbling about visiting the Lake Shrine and sensing the stillness and peace that surrounded the grounds.  If ever there was a place to engage in meditation, this is it!  Many thanks to Jason for taking us on this "fieldtrip" and treating us to lunch.  


Tomorrow is the big day - graduation!  I know it's said all the time, but when you're doing something you enjoy there really is no concept of time, only a happiness that comes with each moment.  Although make no mistake about it, there were plenty of days that felt like "ground hog day" with the same repetitive instruction and classes.  But, I wouldn't trade this experience for anything else and am grateful for the support that I received in taking this huge leap.  Congratulations to all the teacher trainers for their hard work and dedication!


_Peace and Love

Day Twenty Four/Twenty Five

I must admit that I am getting a bit lazy in these last few days!  There's light at the end of the tunnel, and maybe it's because I don't want to admit that this won't be my life next week, or maybe I'm just so happy that I don't have to worry about studying the dialogue that I'm becoming comfortable with my nights (basically being able to eat a delicious dinner and watch some cooking shows on TV).  Regardless, I haven't forgotten about writing!  In fact, I have considered the questions I addressed Tuesday in my post.  


To recap, they were:


How do you see yourself now as compared to the beginning of teacher training - physically, mentally, and emotionally?
How do you see others (friends, family, other teacher trainers)?
How can we be the observer at all times?
What, if anything, do you notice differently about your own practice?


With everything that has happened in the last four weeks it's almost surreal to think that it will be coming to an end.  I can recall on the first day (orientation), I was nervous, uncomfortable, and very anxious about what was to come.  In my head I could only imagine what we were about to take on - endless hours of practice, subtle friendships, and some sort of instruction in anatomy and philosophy.  And yet what has come of the training is more than I ever expected.  I've met people, some who I recognized from the studio and others I had never seen before, that share a similar passion to teach yoga and learn more about the practice.  


At the beginning of teacher training I saw myself as a liberated worker - free from corporate America and the grey cubicle!  And I still do very much see myself in this light.  Yet I have also gained a new understanding of why I am in the position of becoming a yoga instructor.  Because I am a person who seeks to better understand the connection between my mind and body, and in doing so leave behind assumptions of how we should feel and act during given situations, but instead respond with an understanding that I just am.  And, to ultimately share this serenity and awareness with others.     


That took a lot out of me so I'm going to leave it here for tonight.


_Peace and Love

Day Twenty Three

I am really going to miss the discussions we have in Philosophy on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  The conversations are organic and raw - there's no feeling that something wrong can be said, and the dynamic is fully based on learning more about the practice of yoga.  As we are near the end, our teacher Robin brought up several questions to consider:


How do you see yourself now as compared to the beginning of teacher training - physically, mentally, and emotionally?


How do you see others (friends, family, other teacher trainers)?


How can we be the observer at all times?


What, if anything, do you notice differently about your own practice?


I won't address these questions now since I haven't quite had time to contemplate them, but I'm hoping to get to them within the week.  


However, I do want to approach the topic of an "ego," as we shared how this can relate to our practice.  Interestingly enough, which I never considered, we aren't born with an ego.  Take for example my nephew Nathaniel (who is pictured in my profile icon on his 1st birthday).  When he was born he was the size of a peanut!  There was innocence written all across his face, and every time I held him was like holding a bundle of peace and love in my arms.  Now he's approaching the big 2 and his ego is a force to be reckoned with!  Just look at the little guy:  

Now, getting back to how this relates to yoga - it's very easy to let our ego's get in the way of our practice.  "Oh, I can do that pose better than that guy, look how he falls out right away," or "I'm horrible at this pose, I'm not even going to try, I'll give my best on the next one."  Ego's can hinder our practice, allowing us to fall short of what we are really capable of - awareness and observance followed by stillness of mind and body!  But, ego's aren't necessarily bad as they essentially help us in self-preservation as we seek to understand our self-identity.  


Beyond yoga, we deal with our own ego's on a day to day basis.  It's very easy to get caught up in the feeling that we have the right to judge others or expect praise because of something we did.  Instead, we should live simply by observing at all times and expect nothing.  In doing so there becomes a sense of awareness that can help us tackle difficult situations or even enjoy moments of solitude.  Again, I know this might seem pretty "out there" and obviously I'm coming from a philosophic approach to yoga, but I truly believe that in doing so, we can all experience a more fulfilling life. 


_Peace and Love

Day Twenty Two

This post is for yesterday (Monday).  Remember that day where I had nothing to say and felt completely blank?  Well, that happened last night as I tried to think of something to write.  Being in this last week is a bit intimidating in ways since it's up to us to now put everything we learned into action as we begin teaching practice classes amongst ourselves.  Hopefully I have more to write as the week progresses but for now I'm just focused on improving my dialogue and gaining confidence.  And that's it for now! 


_Peace and Love

Day Twenty One

Well, I got a little nervous about our test on the nervous system today (hah!) and didn't do as great as last time, but it was the last day of anatomy!  As much as I cringe thinking about the multiple systems of the body and learning all the names of muscles and joints, it was very beneficial as a practical application to the yoga postures.  

Below is a picture of the teacher trainers with our anatomy instructor, Denny: 

If anyone is interested in learning more about what parts of the body are used in certain yoga postures, I recommend reading Yoga Anatomy. It wasn't a required book for our class but was given to me as a gift from my aunt and is very helpful in breaking down each posture (and with colorful pictures!).  

_Peace and Love

Day Twenty

Well, the day has finally come where we finished the entire dialogue for the series (minus the final breathing)!  Knowing that this is the third week and only one more week remains is both exciting and slightly depressing.  Working with this amazing group of teacher trainers has brought me closer to the Huntington Beach Hot Yoga community and other instructors.  It's always a little sad to see something so special come to an end - but, since there is one more week I won't get too sentimental!

Since I've been receiving positive feedback on pictures and my (novice) attempt at posting videos, I've included some pictures below from this week and other's posture clinics:

Nielan and Travis demonstrating adjustments in Ardha Kurmasana 

(Half Tortoise Pose) 

Jason standing on Jackie's back 

(she's VERY flexible so don't try this on your own!)

Cecilia in Trikanasana (Triangle)

Jason helping Leila in Triangle

That's it for today!  Tomorrow is anatomy and there's a test to study for!

_Peace and Love

Day Nineteen

So I admit I was a little tired last night and didn't get to finishing my post.  Somehow the television turned on and after that it was all a blur. But, don't fret, as I've included one for today and yesterday!  In Philosophy yesterday we discussed the five pillars of the Yamas (Great Vows), considered as moral injunctions, of practicing yoga.  They are:


1.  Non-violence, non-harm, non-injury
2.  Truth, real, genuine, honest, virtuous, truthful
3.  Abstinence from stealing, non-misappropriating 
4.  Continence, self-control
5.  Absence of greed for possessions, hoarding, withholding thoughts


These principles are outlined in Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali by Bks Iyengar as a means to live in the outside world while remaining a yogi.  


During our discussion it was brought up that as yogis, we are allowed to have good attachments - for example, family, friends, love, and of course, yoga!  But, it's also detrimental to hoard possessions as it distracts us from what is true and real - life and those around us.  I remember going over to a relative's house when I was little and seeing stacks and stacks of newspapers and magazines around their house.  It was confusing for me to understand why someone would want to hold on to so many pieces of paper, especially when it became a hinderance in getting around the house.  But, to her it was a comfort to keep these articles around for whatever reason.


Hoarding doesn't have to include just physical objects, at least not in my opinion.  We can hoard negative thoughts against others (which reaches into the principle of non-violence) or we can hoard thoughts by not sharing them with others.  Over the last year I've come to value honesty more than ever as a main principle in keeping relationships with friends and family.  This doesn't mean you have to tell someone straight out if you think their having a bad hair day or if they might not look their best.  But we should be clear and direct in how we feel, without malice but good intention.


These five pillars aren't only for yogis and can be practiced by anyone. I encourage you to evaluate them and see what a difference it makes in your life and those around you.


_Peace and Love

Day Eighteen

What a day!  The week started off a bit rough and even though I had Sunday off I felt drained on Monday. Today was entirely different though.  It's fun to see the different energy that can come through on any given day at the yoga studio.  Studying every night and going through posture clinics every day can be exhausting.  Luckily, all the teacher trainers are positive individuals with a passion for yoga (and not to mention pretty funny people!).

Click here to see a video from our posture clinic today (Travis is instructing Adho Mukha Shvanasana, Downward Dog, and Ekapada Rajakapotasana, Pigeon).

This reminds me that while there are plenty of people who will support someone in their passion, there are always those individuals who doubt the success of following a dream.  I've had people question my intentions about leaving behind a good paying job for something that provides no immediate security.  It's disheartening, and sometimes discouraging, to be put in a position of defending what your heart tells you to do.  But, in the end, I am beyond thrilled with the experience thus far and have no doubt that the other teacher trainers and myself will continue to succeed in our endeavors.        

_Peace and Love

 

Day Seventeen

Every morning after meditation we'll sit and chat for about 5-10 minutes about how we're feeling, what we thought of it, and any general announcements for the day.  It's a nice way to start the day and get everyone going.  Personally though, meditation has been pretty difficult for me.  There are very little instances I can recall when my mind wasn't thinking ahead in anticipation of the next event.  Even when I'm listening to people talk it's hard for me to actively pay attention because I'm contemplating what will happen afterward.  So instead of just letting myself be in mediation, I'm overwhelmed by the millions of thoughts rushing through my head.  I do acknowledge this though and I am working to become focused on the now.


After meditation today we discussed the process of acknowledging thoughts and then letting them pass - not concerned with the past or the future, but the stillness that our mind can achieve through conscious meditation.  And, ironically, or perhaps meant to be, in Philosophy today we studied Sutra 1.1 from Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali by Bks Iyengar.  It is, as described by our instructor Robin, now; is the discipline of yoga.  In other words, being in the present will determine one's practice and ultimately help them achieve more in each posture.


Several questions were brought up which I found to be quite thought provoking:  
-Why are we keeping things (memories of the past or fantasies of the future) that aren't helping us in the present?
-Why do we neglect the now and think only in anticipation of what will happen?


Essentially, we can't do anything about the past - it's done and there's no changing it (sorry Marty McFly).  I have a difficult time with this because I'm always thinking about what could have happened or what I should have done differently.  And on the flip side, I'm a huge planner which means I always want to know what will happen next.  What's the weather going to be like?  What am I going to eat for dinner tomorrow (when it's only breakfast time today)?  


And then, the big revelation - the only thing you can control in the world is your attitude.  We can't change what people will think of us, but we can operate in the now and be present, foregoing any negative feelings that may interrupt our peace.  Sounds pretty "yogi/hippy" I know, but really it can apply to any person, you don't have to practice yoga to take on this approach to life.  With that, I encourage you to just be and not dwell on what did or what might happen.  In the end, if we spend so much time focused on everything besides what is actually happening, we'll lose sight of what's in front of us - life!


_Peace and Love

Day Sixteen

Okay, I know there are a lot of people out there (maybe yourself included) that claim they can't do yoga because it hurts their back.  And believe me, even though I may only have had minor lower back pain from sitting at a desk all day, it still bothered me enough to a point where I couldn't entirely relax.  But you don't have to just believe me - there are plenty of people who have shared similar if not more extreme pain only to have their aches improve with yoga.


Today in posture clinic we went through the back strengthening series. That's what I love about yoga!  There are breathing exercises, balancing postures, back strengtheners, and even detoxifying postures! Obviously I'm an advocate for the series, but when I first began to practice at Huntington Beach Hot Yoga, I struggled with each posture, including the back strengthening portion.  I used to dread them like a trip to the dentist or going to the DMV, and even today I am working to find the correct positioning and placement of my body.  


But with practice (discipline!) and an awareness of mind and body, I can honestly say I have progressed.  Here are some pictures from today's clinic (mom, you can see my instructor standing up in the last picture):

  

So even though I clearly despised some of the postures (and believe me I still have a few less "favorites" today), I learned that with patience, good things can come of your determined will, and not just in yoga.


_Peace and Love 

Day Fifteen

Anatomy was actually fun (yesterday)!  I even  managed to score a 24/25 on my test.  Yea!  After our usual lecture we split up into teams of two and were assigned a specific posture.  One person from each team was instructed to dialogue the posture, and the muscles and joints it targeted, while the other person introduced the posture and then demonstrated it to the rest of the class.


Here are some pictures!

Nielan and Cecilia demonstrating Halasana (Plow Pose).  Helps with spine cervical flexion and lengthens the glutes and hamstrings!

Kim and Annamarie showing us Dhanurasana (Bow Pose).  This one is great for knee flexion and spinal extension as well.  It also works the legs to extend the hamstrings through the hip joints!

Stephanie and Tawny share the benefits of Upavistha Konasana (Seated Wide-Angle Pose).  This is an intermediate seated forward bend.

And here's me with Jackie talking about the benefits of Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (Upward-Facing Dog Pose).  This is a great pose to lengthen the biceps, psoas major, and the sternocleidomastoid!  

I'm so excited to be applying this anatomy mumble-jumble to the poses in yoga!  I guess that goes to show that even in things we don't enjoy there is something positive that can come of any experience.

_Peace and Love  

Day Fourteen

It's Friday!  Normally that would mean the weekend is ahead and plans are to be made, but since teacher training is also on Saturdays, I still have one more day to go before a well deserved rest.  Maybe because my mind was in the "end of the week mode" I felt withdrawn and tired today.  There's nothing easy about doing two classes a day - that's 180 minutes of exercise in over 100 degree weather!  I'm not asking for a pity party, but at times it does feel strenuous and fatigue begins to kick in when you least expect it.


For the most part we spent time today practicing postures and leading each other through the beginning of the floor series. It's an interesting feeling to know that you are getting a cardio workout even when you're on the floor doing postures.  Although we're only on the floor for 30 minutes, there's nothing easy about holding bow pose or going into the deepest backbend in camel.  But, that's also what makes the entire series a great benefit to your body and mind.  In fact, I think it takes even more concentration during the last half hour because it's very easy to let your mind disconnect and just end up laying there.


Similarly, I find that in my previous jobs I reached a state of comfort and didn't feel the need to challenge myself anymore.  I by no means missed assignments or fell through on communications with clients, I just did the work and left it at that.  But, as we all know, the danger lies in being comfortable.  If there isn't a challenge in whatever we do, then suddenly we stop pushing ourselves to strive for more, and instead let the time pass by, one meaningless day after another.  So even though there are days when I'm exhausted and want nothing more than to sleep, it feels good knowing I am pushing myself to achieve something that is personally meaningful.    




_Peace and Love

Day Thirteen

Lineage.  It's a word often used when referring to your personal family history and requires a look at those that came before you in order to gain an understanding of your culture and background.  In yoga, it's just as important to learn about the yogis and gurus who came before us to realize why it is we practice the type of yoga we do, and how it came to be.  


When I first decided to attend a hot yoga studio in Orange County I did what any tech savvy young adult does these days - I yelped it!  (For those of you not familiar with the online service, Yelp is essentially like Yellow Pages but with customer feedback).  Huntington Beach Hot Yoga came up as the clear winner so I decided to attend their 20 days for $20 promotion - smart marketing!  Prior to my first visit in October of 2010, I had attended a Bikram yoga class so I was somewhat familiar with the postures.  


Yet through these last couple of days in teacher training I have gained more knowledge as to who this guy Bikram is, where and who he learned yoga from, and what exactly the Dayton method is (currently practiced at HBHY).  My instructor/guru, Jason Wilkerson, studied under Bikram Choudhury who founded the Yoga College of India and is well known for his series of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises. Interestingly enough, Bikram began practicing yoga at the early age of three and won numerous competitions, eventually named "Yogi Raj" (King of the Yogis).  But seventeen years later he was crippled as a result of a weight lifting accident and doctors told him he would never walk again.  Six months later, Bikram was up and about - crediting his system of Hatha Yoga.


There are plenty of other "founders" in the yoga community who came before  Bikram (and much more on him as well).  In fact, during Philosophy class on Tuesday we were able to pick a person off the lineage tree and prepare a short presentation on them for today.


 


For those of you who practice at HBHY and have wondered what the "Dayton Method" really is, it was founded on the knowledge that Jason received from Bikram and adapted into a series of 28 postures and 2 breathing exercises practiced in a heated room.  Dayton is a family name and thus the reason Jason named his practice as such.  If you're newer to yoga and haven't practiced the Dayton method yet, I highly suggest you give it a try!  


I cannot say enough about how yoga has changed my life for the better. It's such a beautiful and spiritual connection to your mind and body. And ultimately, it brought me out of the grey cube and into something that I am excited to wake up each day to and be a part of.  I hope you share the same enthusiasm in whatever it is that you live for each day!


_Peace and Love

Day Twelve

Ok, so last night I took the easy way out and didn't attempt to write much in my blog.  I apologize to those of you who actually read these posts and were expecting something other than my succinct couple of sentences.  However, I am convinced that had I attempted to express any thoughts they would have come across incoherent as a result of my tired mind and body.  I will say though that I forgot to thank my roommate Jen for helping me study Tuladandasana (Balancing Stick posture) in Gabe's absence.  So thanks Jen!  


And now for today.  What a day!  I thoroughly enjoyed both the 9 am and 4:30 pm classes.  I even felt as if the afternoon class went by faster than usual (although it was obviously still held for the full 90 minutes).  I think this is a result of becoming more accustomed to the practice and timing.  Instead of anticipating the next posture (and the oh-so-delicious water breaks), I'm now focused more on staying in the moment and going further in each pose.  


After this morning's meditation, which by the way isn't easy at all for me, the word "discipline" came up in a conversation.  Related to yoga, discipline is extremely necessary not only in a physical aspect, but in a mental fortitude.  Discipline requires focus, dedication, and determination.  When I was in Cross Country during high school, I was a disciplined runner, always waking up on the weekends to run and practicing every day after school.  I did this because I needed to, I wasn't a fast runner by any means but I could build endurance through determination.  My proudest moment was when I ran 10 miles - the most I had ever run without stopping.  The sensation of accomplishment that I experienced afterward was unlike anything I had ever felt before, and even today I can only describe it as an overflow of joy felt from head to toe.  


This exact feeling is what I experience each time after yoga.  Surviving 90 minutes in the heat, feeling sweat drip down every inch of my body, and staying mentally focused is extremely rewarding because I know my endurance has rewarded me through a strong and healthy mind and body.  Today we read from The Key to the Kingdom of Health through Yoga (Volume 1) by Buddha Bose.  The following passage somewhat illustrates this exact experience: 


"Asana or correct posture is one of the first steps to God-consciousness because it tunes the body-radio to receive the high voltage of cosmic energy and divine enlightenment."  


Wow!  Take from that what you will, but I personally see this as an invitation to constantly strive for more in yoga, in relationships, and in life.  Yet this gratification would not come without discipline and the determination to achieve more.  Continue to be diligent in whatever it is that you are passionate about and ultimately you will receive more than you ever imagined.


_Peace and Love

Day Eleven

I'm blank.  I really don't know what to say today, sorry - it happens sometimes!  However, I will leave you with this advice that was passed on to me today.  BE AWARE.  Of everything around you and all that is in you. 


_Peace and Love

Day Ten

What I love about practicing yoga is that it creates a balance within the body.  Today in posture clinics we went through the first two of three balancing postures - Dandayamana Janushirasana (Standing Head to Knee) and Dandayamana Dhanurasana (Standing Bow Pulling) - the latter of which is my favorite!  I really enjoy these postures because they require a great amount of concentration and determination.  Really all postures in yoga do but with these I find that personally it is even more so since I initially struggled with balance. 

The image below illustrates Dandayamana Dhanurasana (this is not me).  What I love about Standing Bow Pulling pose is how graceful it looks - there is true beauty in reaching the final position of a posture and appreciating the strength of the body.  When I originally began practicing hot yoga I was barely able to grab my foot from the inside and bring it up to meet my left knee.  Today however I'm more aware of my body and using my mind actively I can hold the position without shaking or wobbling out (generally speaking - there are times when I'm having an "off" day).  That drive to continue further in each posture and reach the full "expression" is what I love about yoga.  There is always room for improvement and room to grow.  























I think it's important to maintain balance in our everyday lives as well. Too much of anything (work or play) can deter us from living a life that is meaningful and productive.  My advice is to evaluate where you are today and consider giving equal effort to everything that you do.  


_Peace and Love

 

Day Nine

I passed my anatomy test!  20/25!  Not my best but considering I struggle with the subject already, I think that's a pretty good effort.  Teacher training is progressing considerably fast given that we are already one week through.  It's so fun to wake up each morning and realize that I can start my day with yoga and end my day with yoga.  I'm also enjoying the relationships that are forming between other teacher trainers.  Being together with the same group of people 10 hours a day can sometimes be taxing but with this group I feel as if since we are all striving for the same goal there's no competition or negative energy.  Our collaborative effort to grow together and learn makes training that much more exciting!


Having said that I think it's important to recognize those around us who believe in us enough to support our  efforts.  When I first told my parents I was quitting my job to complete a yoga teacher training program, they were slightly taken aback.  I had worked so hard in graduate school and in job hunting to get to the place where I was.  Suddenly leaving that comfort and security behind made even me nervous, so it's natural that they would be skeptical about the outcome.  And yet they support me completely and understand that my decision ultimately rests behind my desire to strive for more in life.


And each and every day I am grateful for Gabe and his understanding in my love for yoga.  He could easily have brushed it off as a menial undertaking, or some crazy idea just to get myself out of the corporate world, but he believes in what I am doing and having that support is crucial especially when I come home tired, sweaty, and hungry.  


In addition, I am grateful and humbled by each and every one of you who have expressed encouragement and support!  Thank you for believing in my intentions and motivating me to complete each day.

Day Eight

This post should actually be for Friday, July 15th but since I got caught up in studying for anatomy and enjoying the company of others at a wonderful BBQ I am now posting what should be yesterday's blog. 


Today in the 4:30 yoga class the instructor asked a simple question during our Savasana ("Dead Body") pose - "Why are you here?"  It seems easy enough to answer - to get a great workout, to sweat, to feel better about myself, and because it's a requirement of teacher training.  But then I thought, does that really answer why I'm here today?  I could probably get a nice workout running 6 or 7 miles by the beach, or if I wanted to feel better about myself I might get a haircut or massage.  So what is it that really makes me want to be in the class, and not just feel like I have to be there?  


The answer I discovered, for myself, is to have a purpose.  When I worked as an analyst at the consumer trends research company I did love learning about people's opinions, current marketing strategies of major corporations such as Toyota and Clorox, and what was going on in the world.  But really at the end of every day I would walk away from my little grey "home away from home" and think, did I really make a difference?  Quite possibly I did.  


Well, actually I know I did because often our clients would thank us for the data and share that it helped them with a pitch or new product research.  That in itself was part of the problem though - I didn't actually get to see the end results nor did I feel that my work was truly helping me to become a better person.  By no means am I demeaning the efforts of marketing or public relations, I just did not feel any gratification from the work.  I struggled with the fact that I was just supplying information to others so they could sell products or services.  It was all about - money! 


When I first expressed interest in teaching yoga, my boyfriend Gabriel (we were only friends at the time) told me one thing that to this day I am convinced of - if you are truly passionate about something and find a way to do it, you will enjoy living and sharing it with others, and money won't matter.  I suppose it's easy to say and harder to actually believe or follow through with.  But if I wanted to be rich I would have stayed with my analyst job.  I have no doubt that in 2-3 years I would have been promoted to a senior analyst and be making a comfortable living (only because I was diligent and had the capacity to do so).  But, my heart would suffer.  Because in my heart is a true desire and passion to share the benefits of yoga.  


Recently one of my best friends from middle school got married and as a bridesmaid I shared this passage from The Alchemist during my toast:


"Why do we have to listen to our hearts?" the boy asked, when they had made camp that day.


"Because, wherever your heart is, that is where you'll find your treasure."


So, where is your heart today?  Are you actively listening to it?  Or are you tuning it out and continuing with your daily grind only to survive and not live?  I would rather live - after all we only get one life.  


_Peace and Love

Day Seven

Woo hoo!  One week officially completed!  Only 38 more hot yoga classes to go!  Not that I'm not enjoying this training 100% but as a former analyst it's in my blood to examine any situation.  As I was thinking about what to write today I came to the realization that taking multiple classes a day is not only good for the body, but allows me to become familiar with different styles of teaching.  Each instructor at the studio is unique and yet consistent in their own way.  And they are all excellent practitioners when it comes to hot yoga.  


Part of learning the dialogue in teacher training is, for me, examining what each instructor says and using that information to enhance my own instructions.  In this way, I'm learning how to better improve my postures (while in practice) and form a well-rounded dialogue.  The first couple of days I was nervous about getting up and standing in front of my peers verbally illustrating each posture.  But slowly with each day I am becoming more confident in my ability to instruct others.  


I think with anything that's really the case for most people, or at least myself.  I'm not one to embrace change head on, in fact I get nervous if I can't plan out every detail.  How might this relate to learning dialogue?  Well, I knew that getting up in front of 11 people would be a drastic change from what I was used to in the last year (working alone in a grey cube with my best friend - a Dell).  Public speaking was not something I exercised daily.  And yet letting go of nerves and allowing myself to simply engage with the dialogue helped tremendously.  My advice is to engage in the unexpected and be surprised, no matter what the outcome. 


_Peace and Love  

Day Six

This morning was tough.  As in I did not want to get out of bed tough and thought about how nice it would be to sleep in and drool a little while longer on my pillow.  But, a part of me also knew that getting up and attending class would in the end make me feel better.  Teacher training requires attendance daily for two classes - that's 3 hours of hot yoga.  


Since I started practicing at this studio I realized there were essentially two sides to the room - the hot side and the "cold" side.  I've always maintained that staying on the hot side would provide a greater benefit in that I would sweat more and release more toxins from my body.  And of course I'm not afraid to admit that my pride has kept me from giving in to the less heated areas.  Rarely have I ever moved to the other side of the room, considering it almost like a distant continent from my usual heat induced suffocating place. 


But after the 9 am class I knew I needed to make a compromise or my body would not forgive me.  Part of the teacher training process is gradually knowing your limits and becoming familiar with what your body can handle.  While I wanted to stay on the hot side for the 4:30 class I grudgingly positioned my mat on the opposite side and told myself it was for the best.  


And guess what, turns out that the "cold" side isn't really that cold after all!  Relatively speaking it is slightly cooler, but I felt as if I was sweating just as much.  So, whether on the mat or off, I suppose it's a good idea to know your limits and accept that sometimes you'll have days where everything won't go as planned.  And that's ok!  After all, if each day was the same as the next, what would be the point of living?


_Peace and Love  

Day Five

Since Tuesdays and Thursdays are dedicated to the Philosophy teachings of yoga, today was my first course.  Initially I was apprehensive about the instruction since I've always maintained that while yoga may act as a religion for some, it was my stance to separate it from my own personal beliefs.  And yet I was quite surprised by how well the first day turned out!  The instructor is extremely wise and appears sincere about teaching us the history and beginnings of yoga.


During our discussions we were told to answer the question, "Who am I?"  Each one of us was given a plain white paper plate and allowed to write whatever came to our mind whether in words, phrases, or even drawings.  I immediately thought, "Oh, this is easy, just describe yourself."  But just as quickly I realized how difficult the question can be to answer.  Yes, I could describe myself in relation to others (e.g. daughter, girlfriend, aunt) or to adjectives (e.g. happy, smart, simple) or even physical objects (e.g. a PC vs. a Mac).  But, really, who am I?


Here are some of the words I ended up writing on my plate:
Happy
Cheez-it lover
Yoga lover/addict
Daughter
Long hair
A nerd
Funny
Friend
Shy
Impatient
A vessel to share the gift of God and yoga with others!


We then proceeded to swap plates and guess who each plate belonged to.  While we were doing this I came up with a few other words I wish I had initially written down:


A child (as in the heart of a child)
Food lover


Yet this exercise taught me that while all of these words accurately described me as an individual, it didn't really answer the question "Who am I?"  Another student in the class brought up the point that she was "no thing."  Attachment to labels essentially made her something almost manufactured into a human being.  Rather, she chose to define her existence as simply that - existence with the self.  Now, that might sound a little "out there" for some, but I do understand her point and agree that knowing yourself isn't about knowing which words to chose but rather just being.  


So, with that I suggest to simply try "being."  


_Peace and love

Day Four

No yoga yesterday, hence no post.  However, I did get to hang out with this little guy which as you can see made for a very happy Lidia!

Today I heard something during posture clinics that caught my attention.  The question was, "What is yoga?"  Yoga means different things to different people.  For some, it is a healing practice, while for others it is a chance to escape the real world for an hour and a half and let go of any stress.  However, the reply brought up in class today hit the nail on the head for me - that is, yoga is a conscious form of exercise.

I've mentioned before that I enjoy running and have ran now for nearly 10 years (since freshman year in high school).  Yet not until I began practicing the Dayton method of yoga did I learn to engage my mind in exercise.  Granted, there are runners that do this when practicing and competing, and perhaps I just never thought to think during my races.  I am by no means discrediting runners or the ability to perform in a race.  I think for some reason I just never made the connection to engage mentally in a physical practice.

During the 28 postures and 2 breathing exercises, I am consistently using my mind to push my body further.  It's almost an annoying yet persistent conversation with myself.  "Yes, you can do this, just hold the pose for 5 for more seconds, don't let go, keep going."  Applying this mentality to other areas of my life is a struggle yet it's important that I do so.  Without taking what I learn in yoga and using it in my daily interactions with others, I'm essentially limiting my practice and my ability to grow as an individual.

And for those wondering if I still continue to run, the answer is yes!  I thoroughly enjoy running and most recently did a beautiful and hilly 6 mile run through San Francisco.  Whatever your form of exercise is, I suggest engaging the mind and notice if there's any difference in your physical performance.  

_Peace and Love

Day Three

Oh anatomy.  How I despise thee.  In college, I often thought about majoring in Kinesiology but the thought of learning the "science" of the body deterred me from taking the plunge.  Today I had no choice as part of teacher training requires instruction in anatomy.  After three hours learning about parts of my body I never even knew existed I was confused as ever.  Nevertheless, I do acknowledge and understand the importance of knowing how the body functions and the muscles we use in certain yoga positions.  In fact, this is one aspect of yoga that I was initially drawn toward.  


Often during the 90 minute practice instructors will incorporate the benefits of each posture.  For example, during Pavanamuktasana (or "wind removing") the digestion system is stimulated aiding in elimination.  And you thought laxatives were the only way to improve your colon.  

Since I began practicing the Dayton method of yoga in October 2010, I can honestly say that my body has grown stronger and healthier. Granted, what you eat is a large part of how your body functions, yet yoga provides a holistic approach to inner wellness.  It's both addicting and gratifying.  If you have something in your life that provides both those feelings (and isn't necessarily bad for your body) then we can relate!  Yoga isn't for everyone, but I suggest giving it a try and seeing what differences it can make in your life.  




_Peace and Love

Day Two: Patience

Anyone who knows me can attest to the fact that I am not the most patient person.  Ok, I really have no patience.  When I was a child, my family nicknamed me the Tasmanian devil (as in the cartoon character from Warner Brothers).  I always wanted to do a million things at once and would often run circles around myself.  Today I still struggle with patience on a daily basis.  Accepting that there are elements outside of my control is not easy.

Yoga has opened my mind to many new possibilities, including the art of patience.  This morning I began teacher training with 11 other students in meditation.  Now, I have never practiced meditation and really had no idea where to start.  Do I close my eyes and float to some place?  Is there a "meditation destiny" that we are all supposed to reach?  The answer to both of these questions I learned is "no."  Meditation is about being patient and listening to your body.  It's amazing what you can hear when you are in silence.  Your body begins to talk to you from the most inner core of your being.  

During the first five minutes I essentially tried to be patient.  Our teacher let us know beforehand that meditation isn't supposed to be a structured, formal process.  Instead, by being patient and listening to yourself, your body, your thoughts, you can find inner peace - whether for 5 seconds or 5 minutes.  Since this was our first meditation together, we stopped after 15 minutes.  But in those 15 minutes I realized how important it is to take time for yourself and set everything aside that isn't important to becoming more aware of yourself.  Only then will we be able to grow as individuals and share the peace within ourselves with others.  

_Peace and Love