'Twas another great class today. I should, however, refrain from drinking too close to the start of class. I've been taking pee breaks after Eagle, thereby missing out on doing Standing Head to Knee for the the right leg during the first set. I've been very pleased with my Balancing Stick, ever since I started to stretch my arms up, point my toes back, keeping the leg strong and contracted, and PIVOTING forward like a wheel, keeping the arms and legs connected as the arms go down and the leg goes up.
During the one of the Savasanas, teacher C. talked about people who are reluctant to try this yoga because they think they are not flexible. I, too, have been trying to get one of my work buddies to go to his first class; I even gave him one of my complimentary class passes as an incentive! One time he had complained that he had hurt his back playing soccer and that he wants to rest first. I told him that if he had only gone the first time I had asked him, he probably would have prevented this from happening. Anyway, C. said that the point of the yoga is to go in and try the best you can...that's all you can do. You build up your practice as the days go by. The one point she mentioned that I took away with me from the class today was that THERE IS NO JUDGMENT IN THE ROOM. There is no competition. I read an article shared by my yoga studio and it was entitled "10 Commandments of Bikram Yoga". The one commandment that really stood out for me was, "Thou Shalt Not Covet Thy Neighbour's Practice". Nuff said. Namaste.
Good night, Mommy. I love you.
PS: Here's the link to the article: http://missfitbliss.com/2011/04/13/the-10-commandments-of-bikram-yoga-part-i/
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Day 21 - A Stiff Start, A Strong Finish
Pranayama was brutal today. I could not bend my neck back as per usual. A stiff neck was the culprit. Thankfully, by time the second set of the first back bend came around, I was able to hang my head back, albeit only just. This goes to show how much the joints open up in so little time in that heat and humidity.
A. was at the helm today. She has such a soothing manner about her, and with years of experience she has a lot of tips and knowledge to share with us. It was such a great class today with a lot of yogis in the room, and it wasn't sweltering either.
A few postures which were challenging in the past rocked today. There are days when YOU JUST GET IT. I've been practicing for almost two years now. I've read the two Bikram Yoga books (the blue book and the orange book) multiple times. I take my practice quite seriously. I internalize the corrections and suggestions the instructors give to me. But sometimes, you know, there are days when nothing works, and there are days when everything just falls into place. I loved my Balancing Stick, Cobra, and Camel Poses today. Knowing when to push, when to back off, and reconnecting with the breath are essential to a strong practice.
Nine more stickers to place on the board...
Good night, Mommy. I love you.
A. was at the helm today. She has such a soothing manner about her, and with years of experience she has a lot of tips and knowledge to share with us. It was such a great class today with a lot of yogis in the room, and it wasn't sweltering either.
A few postures which were challenging in the past rocked today. There are days when YOU JUST GET IT. I've been practicing for almost two years now. I've read the two Bikram Yoga books (the blue book and the orange book) multiple times. I take my practice quite seriously. I internalize the corrections and suggestions the instructors give to me. But sometimes, you know, there are days when nothing works, and there are days when everything just falls into place. I loved my Balancing Stick, Cobra, and Camel Poses today. Knowing when to push, when to back off, and reconnecting with the breath are essential to a strong practice.
Nine more stickers to place on the board...
Good night, Mommy. I love you.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Day 20 - "With Your Happy Smiling Face"
Second trimester done. A little sore and the joints were pretty tight this morning at 6:00AM. Last night, I was at Lululemon again...not to shop...but to "torture" my abs and legs with Goddess Pilates. I've been going to the free classes at Lulu for four Sunday evenings now, with hot yoga of course first thing in the morning. I really enjoy being there, especially when you have a buddy to be tortured with...haha.
B U R N. That was how the abs and legs felt like. But oh, so, good.
So today, the knees weren't locking during first set of Hands to Feet Pose. The arms wouldn't stay straight with elbows locked. The joints were rusty. My left hiney bum was sore too. But hey, Awkward rocked, and so did Eagle and Triangle.
J. was at the helm today, and it's always so much fun having her there, especially at 6:00AM when you'd rather be in bed catching some extra ZZZ's than sweating and stretching in heat and humidity. On my way out after thanking her for a great class, as usual, she said that she enjoys having me there too with my happy smiling face. Awww, those words really mean a lot to me. I'm very happy to pass on the good cheer. Is it the yoga? I bet it is. Namaste.
Good night, Mommy. I love you.
B U R N. That was how the abs and legs felt like. But oh, so, good.
So today, the knees weren't locking during first set of Hands to Feet Pose. The arms wouldn't stay straight with elbows locked. The joints were rusty. My left hiney bum was sore too. But hey, Awkward rocked, and so did Eagle and Triangle.
J. was at the helm today, and it's always so much fun having her there, especially at 6:00AM when you'd rather be in bed catching some extra ZZZ's than sweating and stretching in heat and humidity. On my way out after thanking her for a great class, as usual, she said that she enjoys having me there too with my happy smiling face. Awww, those words really mean a lot to me. I'm very happy to pass on the good cheer. Is it the yoga? I bet it is. Namaste.
Good night, Mommy. I love you.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Day 19 - It's A 10!
Good morning, Sunshine! Finally, the sun is shining where it's supposed to this time of the year. Victoria has the best weather in the country, so it's a little bit off-putting not to see the sun and feel warmer temperatures right now.
Setting out for an early practice at 7:00AM, I was somehow surprised to see only a handful of us practicing this morning. T E N. Plus the wonderful Catherine at the helm. I had my pick of the room having arrived 20 minutes early. I chose to be up front (no surprise there) although I was tempted to be at the back right beside the window.
It was a strong practice, no leg cramps, and despite having just 10 other bodies in the room, there was great energy to pump everyone up. The temperature in the room was just right, enough to make you sweat, but not too hot to take your breath away.
My joints were a bit tight this morning, but I'm relieved that my forehead still managed to touch the floor during Standing Separate Leg Stretching. Balance is still a bit off, but improving. Awkward Pose was at its best this morning.
I hope you all have a pleasant Sunday. The Vancouver Canucks are going for their third straight win to clinch the playoffs this evening. Go Canucks!
Good night, Mommy. I love you.
Setting out for an early practice at 7:00AM, I was somehow surprised to see only a handful of us practicing this morning. T E N. Plus the wonderful Catherine at the helm. I had my pick of the room having arrived 20 minutes early. I chose to be up front (no surprise there) although I was tempted to be at the back right beside the window.
It was a strong practice, no leg cramps, and despite having just 10 other bodies in the room, there was great energy to pump everyone up. The temperature in the room was just right, enough to make you sweat, but not too hot to take your breath away.
My joints were a bit tight this morning, but I'm relieved that my forehead still managed to touch the floor during Standing Separate Leg Stretching. Balance is still a bit off, but improving. Awkward Pose was at its best this morning.
I hope you all have a pleasant Sunday. The Vancouver Canucks are going for their third straight win to clinch the playoffs this evening. Go Canucks!
Good night, Mommy. I love you.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Day 18 - PM Class with the Crampies
I missed my morning class as I had to work today, but luckily there weren't any last minute stragglers to do their banking so we were able to finish on time. I arrived at the studio with plenty of time to spare and secured a really good spot on the second row on the right side of the room. The sunny weather must have kept most of the crowd away from the hot room, which I didn't mind at all.
As to be expected, I was more loosened up for class. My bum elbow didn't hurt during Half Moon and Eagle. Awkward Pose was a lot better today, and I was able to hold Eagle Pose for the whole duration. I did have to leave the room after Eagle for a pee break so I missed the first set of Standing Head to Knee. I had trouble with my balance during Standing Bow Pulling Pose and Balancing Stick although I managed to execute one or two tries which weren't too bad.
As for the Floor Series, I am more conscious now of my alignment, making sure that my legs are pointed straight back and not off to the side. I had trouble with Floor Bow as my legs felt some cramping which has not happened in a long time. I must not have hydrated myself well enough today. Plus I had a later lunch, about 2 1/2 hours prior; I prefer to finish eating by three hours before class starts. It's also THAT time of the month. My stomach felt a little bloated today. I was a little concerned about Camel in this condition but surprisingly, I pulled it off without a hitch.
Eighteen days went by just like that. It seems that once the first trimester was done, the days seem to fly by! I just have twelve days left! It seems a long time, but I know that before I can say, "Namaste" the challenge will be over. A few of of us were chatting one day about what life would be like after the 30 Day Challenge. I guess some might continue to do a 60 or a 90, while others will take a day or two off before resuming their regular practice again. We are all in agreement that once the challenge bug has bitten you, it would be pretty difficult to slack off. The question is, would I still practice at 6:00AM? Stopping to ponder, I think I will still do so on the days that I work, then a later class on my days off. Would I do it EVERYDAY? If not, how many days off will I allow myself? We'll just have to cross the bridge when we get there. Y'all be kept posted!
Good night, Mommy. I love you.
As to be expected, I was more loosened up for class. My bum elbow didn't hurt during Half Moon and Eagle. Awkward Pose was a lot better today, and I was able to hold Eagle Pose for the whole duration. I did have to leave the room after Eagle for a pee break so I missed the first set of Standing Head to Knee. I had trouble with my balance during Standing Bow Pulling Pose and Balancing Stick although I managed to execute one or two tries which weren't too bad.
As for the Floor Series, I am more conscious now of my alignment, making sure that my legs are pointed straight back and not off to the side. I had trouble with Floor Bow as my legs felt some cramping which has not happened in a long time. I must not have hydrated myself well enough today. Plus I had a later lunch, about 2 1/2 hours prior; I prefer to finish eating by three hours before class starts. It's also THAT time of the month. My stomach felt a little bloated today. I was a little concerned about Camel in this condition but surprisingly, I pulled it off without a hitch.
Eighteen days went by just like that. It seems that once the first trimester was done, the days seem to fly by! I just have twelve days left! It seems a long time, but I know that before I can say, "Namaste" the challenge will be over. A few of of us were chatting one day about what life would be like after the 30 Day Challenge. I guess some might continue to do a 60 or a 90, while others will take a day or two off before resuming their regular practice again. We are all in agreement that once the challenge bug has bitten you, it would be pretty difficult to slack off. The question is, would I still practice at 6:00AM? Stopping to ponder, I think I will still do so on the days that I work, then a later class on my days off. Would I do it EVERYDAY? If not, how many days off will I allow myself? We'll just have to cross the bridge when we get there. Y'all be kept posted!
Good night, Mommy. I love you.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Day 17 - A Time to Reflect and What TO Wear Next :)
Seventeen straight done. What gives? Here's what I've come up with.
I was told that my body will open up when I do a back-to-back or a double. I will be tired, yes, but the reward of improved flexibility will somehow soften the blow. Yesterday, I was amazed at how my body has changed for the better after being subjected to 180 minutes of "torture" in the chamber. For once, my bum right elbow felt very close to normal again. I'm not sure whether the timing was coincidental, as I hurt it close to three months ago, and that it was due to be healed. I was told though, that an injury of this nature normally takes longer than that. Another thing I noticed is that my hips feel more open, especially today at 6:00AM. My Trikanasana was way, way better than it used to. Sitting down lower in order for my crotch to be at the same level as my knee is a lot easier to do than in previous classes. I was also successful in holding the Standing Head to Knee Posture a few seconds longer. Thanks, teacher L. for the tip of sucking the tummy in and breathing a slow, steady breath in and out through the nose while in the posture. The power of breath comes through once again! I've been practicing for 16 consecutive days, so maybe it was time for my hips to open up at this point. Who knows? It sure felt great to be able to clear yet another hurdle in this practice. It is simply amazing how much potential the human body has and we only have to get out of our comfort zones to challenge it, while at the same time, being good listeners too and not to push it TOO MUCH to the point of breakage.
It's this last point that I believe is why yoga is nothing but a good thing. It reacquaints us with our bodies. It helps us to be patient with ourselves. Sadly these days, we are always in a hurry. Ninety minutes may either be too long or too short, depending on our individual reasons on why we chose to be there. It definitely IS a refueling station, not just during Savasana, but during each and every one of the 26 postures. It not only refuels the body to get through the 90 minutes, but also to help us get through the remaining 1,350 each and every day.
I had a great evening last night catching up with hubby over some liqueurs before bedtime. We didn't retire until midnight, and he asked me what time I had to get up to get ready for class, and when I answered 5:15AM, he exclaimed, "How do you do it? You only have about 5 hours of sleep!" I said, "I don't know, I just feel great and have so much energy!" I dreamt about a pair of shorts that my yoga studio has for sale, and it was a black and white tiger print made by Shakti. Apparently I want to buy it as well as a Lululemon red Pranayama Bra to go with it. Oh boy, I'm telling you. I am more excited about shopping for yoga outfits than regular clothes. Yes, I guess you have the license to call me a yoga nut. And that's okay. Namaste.
Good night, Mommy. I love you.
I was told that my body will open up when I do a back-to-back or a double. I will be tired, yes, but the reward of improved flexibility will somehow soften the blow. Yesterday, I was amazed at how my body has changed for the better after being subjected to 180 minutes of "torture" in the chamber. For once, my bum right elbow felt very close to normal again. I'm not sure whether the timing was coincidental, as I hurt it close to three months ago, and that it was due to be healed. I was told though, that an injury of this nature normally takes longer than that. Another thing I noticed is that my hips feel more open, especially today at 6:00AM. My Trikanasana was way, way better than it used to. Sitting down lower in order for my crotch to be at the same level as my knee is a lot easier to do than in previous classes. I was also successful in holding the Standing Head to Knee Posture a few seconds longer. Thanks, teacher L. for the tip of sucking the tummy in and breathing a slow, steady breath in and out through the nose while in the posture. The power of breath comes through once again! I've been practicing for 16 consecutive days, so maybe it was time for my hips to open up at this point. Who knows? It sure felt great to be able to clear yet another hurdle in this practice. It is simply amazing how much potential the human body has and we only have to get out of our comfort zones to challenge it, while at the same time, being good listeners too and not to push it TOO MUCH to the point of breakage.
It's this last point that I believe is why yoga is nothing but a good thing. It reacquaints us with our bodies. It helps us to be patient with ourselves. Sadly these days, we are always in a hurry. Ninety minutes may either be too long or too short, depending on our individual reasons on why we chose to be there. It definitely IS a refueling station, not just during Savasana, but during each and every one of the 26 postures. It not only refuels the body to get through the 90 minutes, but also to help us get through the remaining 1,350 each and every day.
I had a great evening last night catching up with hubby over some liqueurs before bedtime. We didn't retire until midnight, and he asked me what time I had to get up to get ready for class, and when I answered 5:15AM, he exclaimed, "How do you do it? You only have about 5 hours of sleep!" I said, "I don't know, I just feel great and have so much energy!" I dreamt about a pair of shorts that my yoga studio has for sale, and it was a black and white tiger print made by Shakti. Apparently I want to buy it as well as a Lululemon red Pranayama Bra to go with it. Oh boy, I'm telling you. I am more excited about shopping for yoga outfits than regular clothes. Yes, I guess you have the license to call me a yoga nut. And that's okay. Namaste.
Good night, Mommy. I love you.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Day 16 - I Held My Breath and Jumped Right In
"Hold your breath, and jump right in..."
Famous words from an old colleague of mine who taught a class on Estates many years ago. I am in banking, and estate processing used to scare me. I would catch my breath when someone approaches my work station to declare that their loved one had passed away, and the bank accounts need to be dealt with. I was intimidated by the entire process, the documents required, who can have access to the account, who cannot be given access to the account, etc., etc. This colleague who taught the course knew how intimidating it can be, so when she uttered those words, it made perfect sense to me. You will never get over this fear unless you face it head on, and somehow you will just learn how to deal with it. Mistakes may happen, and they can always be fixed. But all that knowledge and experience will only build your confidence over time.
So now, after having dealt with a few, I do not fear Estates anymore. In fact, I quite enjoy being given the task. The part I do not like is having to hear that a dear old lady or gentleman customer you have served for many years has passed away, and you will not get to see them anymore.
Today, I held my breath and jumped right in...to do a back-to-back, or double--two consecutive classes in one day. I went to the 6:00AM and the 9:00AM classes. I felt very reluctant to do it, up until I spoke with my yoga buddy J. who gave me a few tips on how to survive the back-to-back classes. Just make sure you drink lots of water to replenish the fluids you lost in class #1 and maybe half an orange to get some sugar in your system as well. That was all the push I needed to make the plunge. It also helped that I felt great after class #1. The wonderful I. was at the helm again this morning, and she gave me some helpful tips for the Standing Bow Pulling Pose.
I was told by J. that during class #2, I will be more flexible, and the joints will be more open, but I may feel tired. True enough, this is what happened. I wasn't able to balance the whole time during Toe Stand, and I got out of the first set of Spine Twist early, which never happened before. I was dreaming of a tall, ice-cold glass of Coca-Cola :) Yep, monkey mind had a little field day during a Savasana or two.
After class, I felt great. I glugged the water in my bottle, had a refill, and glugged that down too! That shower never felt better. I left the studio very happy, that once again, I have pushed myself out of my comfort zone. This yoga journey will be going for a very, very long ride. Namaste.
Good night, Mommy. I love you.
Famous words from an old colleague of mine who taught a class on Estates many years ago. I am in banking, and estate processing used to scare me. I would catch my breath when someone approaches my work station to declare that their loved one had passed away, and the bank accounts need to be dealt with. I was intimidated by the entire process, the documents required, who can have access to the account, who cannot be given access to the account, etc., etc. This colleague who taught the course knew how intimidating it can be, so when she uttered those words, it made perfect sense to me. You will never get over this fear unless you face it head on, and somehow you will just learn how to deal with it. Mistakes may happen, and they can always be fixed. But all that knowledge and experience will only build your confidence over time.
So now, after having dealt with a few, I do not fear Estates anymore. In fact, I quite enjoy being given the task. The part I do not like is having to hear that a dear old lady or gentleman customer you have served for many years has passed away, and you will not get to see them anymore.
Today, I held my breath and jumped right in...to do a back-to-back, or double--two consecutive classes in one day. I went to the 6:00AM and the 9:00AM classes. I felt very reluctant to do it, up until I spoke with my yoga buddy J. who gave me a few tips on how to survive the back-to-back classes. Just make sure you drink lots of water to replenish the fluids you lost in class #1 and maybe half an orange to get some sugar in your system as well. That was all the push I needed to make the plunge. It also helped that I felt great after class #1. The wonderful I. was at the helm again this morning, and she gave me some helpful tips for the Standing Bow Pulling Pose.
I was told by J. that during class #2, I will be more flexible, and the joints will be more open, but I may feel tired. True enough, this is what happened. I wasn't able to balance the whole time during Toe Stand, and I got out of the first set of Spine Twist early, which never happened before. I was dreaming of a tall, ice-cold glass of Coca-Cola :) Yep, monkey mind had a little field day during a Savasana or two.
After class, I felt great. I glugged the water in my bottle, had a refill, and glugged that down too! That shower never felt better. I left the studio very happy, that once again, I have pushed myself out of my comfort zone. This yoga journey will be going for a very, very long ride. Namaste.
Good night, Mommy. I love you.
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