Favorite Place (doing yoga – photo challenge and yoga talk)

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The weekly photo challenge asked folks to share their favorite place.

The word favorite has so many variables and might be tough to define without context.

Favorite place for what??

So I decided on this photo: my favorite place is anywhere I can do some yoga:

“A”

My favorite place is anywhere I can do yoga.

Not all yoga is power yoga – and it makes me sad that people overlook yoga as a life enrichment because they view it as an advanced form of exercise. We see someone doing a one-arm balance on a mountain peak or see the pretzel poses and it seems like it is an elite sport. Ugh. When I asked Nancy Kim for a photo of her for the interview I did last year, she was hesitant. Not because she does not have some strong poses to demo-  but because she said that yoga is “so not about the pose.”

Nancy did not want to portray yoga in any way that was showing off; she had a respect for the way she portrayed herself as a teacher and the way yoga was depicted. Nice….. 

 

I will rant a little today (below) -and for those who don’t feel like reading – let’s get back to my weekly photo challenge pics.

Here are two other photos I took for this challenge.  I went with the one above (A) – but wanted to see what readers like best. 

So do you like A, B, or C and why?

“B”
“C”

 

 

 

Yoga Talk:

It makes me sad that people overlook yoga as a life enrichment because they view it as an advanced form of exercise.

Sometimes people are turned off to yoga because classes are SO fast (too fast even for a nice Vinyasa flow) or there is little stretching – really.  Or they have an instructor who is below average at teaching and that teacher only show one side of yoga (their take on teaching it) and it chases folks away. 

 I tell folks they need to try at least ten different teachers before they assume yoga is not for them. 

Yoga is about stretching, aligning and breathing –  all humans need to do this – and I believe everyone can find a way to benefit from stretching and training breath. 

I also tell people that it is OKAY if you do NOT “like” a teacher. 

It is nothing personal and sometimes it comes down to energy and chemistry (and your style or needs at a given time).

And to NOT want to go to a certain class might be because the teacher is not someone you want to spend an hour with.  You might not want to be under their care.

By owning this – and understanding that it is natural (different strokes for different folks baby) – you can get more from classes you go to.  You can grow and enjoy yoga more when you have comfort with the instructor. 

Okay – maybe for “personal mastery” you can train yourself to work with an annoying teacher – maybe….. 

I recently shared with a fellow yogi about how I will never attend a certain young lady’s class again. 

I did not care for her teaching style or her approach to a class.  All my preference and subjective opinion.  Recently, this yogi friend texted me about how she (after previously having some issues with her class – like the teacher’s lack of safety in a hot yoga room) well after inviting me to join her that day (and I had to mention, again, to her how I am sensitive to the energy and personality of the teachers I do yoga with – and noted it is my thing) well she texted me later about how she went to the class that day and how she “approached the class with kindness” and “opened my heart a little bit more” 

The lady that texted me this is a very kind person and I do not think she was trying to suggest that I also need to do the same thing (I hope not – because she is not the head game – guilt trip kind of person) – but IF she was suggesting this – well my response would have been, “Um- good for you, but I do not feel called to do this.” That is not an example of self-discipline to me.

 Forcing myself to practice an hour+ ‘under’ the teaching of someone who seems half-ass trained (for hot yoga) and someone who also has safety issues (not just around the heat) and also – fails to do (what I like) for class intros – like she power started with a fast Chaturanga (sun sal, push-up, plank, etc.), was inhospitable and rude! That does not sit well with me personally. And so if this friend of mine felt led to work at being under this teacher well good for her – but I shake my head at part of it….. and wondered if she was making it work because that time slot works best for her and it was literally the only class that afternoon. 

However,  there are times when I humbly “approach with kindness” and “open my heart a little bit more.” 

Many times! I do this with family, with colleagues, neighbors, etc.  I do this with people God has put in my life and you bet I humble myself and “open my heart a little bit more” to show kindness and to work at union. There are many times we do this and it makes life better and people get loved and we get loved. Part of the fabric of society.

But in my opinion, this does NOT apply to forcing myself to practice  with a yoga instructor from Chicago who has a style of teaching that does not match what my body (and mind) want or need right now. 

Maybe I seem all judgmental to this yogi friend because I also said that I do not prefer to go to this other guy’s classes. And she asked me again to join her and I had to remind her again. Maybe I look all bitchy and stuck. But you see, this guy teacher can be kind of rude. I love him as a person and when he left one of the studios I practiced at – I had everyone sign a canvas for him.  And one of my all-time favorite classes was with him (it was this hot yoga power class back in 2016 and folks were dripping and he played songs like, “Wish you were here” and the crowded room had an energy I cannot describe).  He is also extremely hospitable with late comers – he starts his classes five minutes late for that very reason. I have borrowed this from him because it works well for yoga – folks that are there can center and latecomers (reasonably a few minutes late) ease in with a feeling of welcomeness.  Seriously – it is a gift of his – and he also loves a packed class – whereas other teachers sometimes have sent folks away because they were too timid or not mindful enough to ask people to move over.  But this guy would kindly speak up and say something like, “Let’s move over!” “Let’s make room folks…” or  “Let’s do it like they do in New York – you can have two fingers between mats and we’ll modify poses for a large group….”  However, I found that going to his class was not something I enjoyed. He is a little cranky. One time he put someone on the spot because he was standing right next to them when they were going left and it was supposed to be going to the right (and teachers who do too much left right, left right should have way more grace for that cognitive demand placed on students).  He also sometimes brings chanting into the class – and that is not really for me either.  It is nothing personal against him, but I do not have a peace inside when I head towards his class.

And it is okay if someone does not understand it –

but if you want to judge it – then I will defend it

and just say – “different strokes for different folks.” 

If YOU feel called to yield and “master” something in yourself by practicing with a teacher you formerly complained about – then go for it. 

But for me – I will not compromise.  I will remember that we all have different learning styles and preferences; and I will embrace this.  And oh my goodness – thank God I have friggin’ options when it comes to who I practice yoga under and with.  Because in so many life areas we do NOT have the luxury of choice – especially with certain family members and colleagues (we really need to try to make it work to a certain degree) – anyhow, here is what I will try to master – to NOT get annoyed when I have to explain, again, that “No, thank you, I do NOT care to practice under a certain teacher, because they are not my style.” 

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 A few months ago I invited this older guy and his wife to our Sunday Night Yoga class and he said something about how unfit he was and how he just could never go to yoga!

Therein lies the problem. People do not realize yoga gets you fit – yoga is what leads to the stretched and lengthened and aligned body (or can).

We have it backwards when we think we have to be fit enough or flexible enough to “do” yoga.

Well some yoga does take a certain level of fitness and know-how – like this is the case with a power yoga class – but so many people are missing out on the benefits of yoga because they have not found the appropriate “basic” class. 

A basic yoga class should involve some gentle Vinyasa flow segments – it also should guide breathing and provide overall body stretching to open pathways (meridians or nadis) and then offer some balance poses (standing, seated, etc.) that can be done at multi levels.  Like some lunge poses have a beginner level and then 3 or 4 other ways to modify the pose and advance it.  A good “basic” yoga class also offers the “crown ending” pose of Savasana—also known as Corpse pose— where one is quietly supine with a relaxed body and mind.   

And seriously –  Savasana has so many benefits – so teachers should not skip or rush this.   At the end of class it is a little reward.

It also trains the mind – a little conditioning goes a long way – and so the more you work at fully relaxing like this – the more familiar you become doing it – the more it can branch out into everyday life. This can be especially helpful for folks who are reactive or high-stressed. 

 

 

Savasana is a fully conscious pose where you experience a deep sense of stillness and it helps lead to a feeling of wellness.  Research shows that a good yoga practice – which likely includes regular savasana – can do wonders at the cellular level and help the working of the Autonomic Nervous System (sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems), which control and regulate reactions and the unconscious function of organs.  The parasympathetic system is all about rest, relaxation and digestion whereas the sympathetic system is where fight or flight (or freeze) reactions happen. Yoga can help people deep inside their being  – mind, body and spirit. 

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Okay – time to wrap up. Can you tell I love yoga? 🙂 

Please let me know your preference in the photos (A B or C) and if you have any yoga thoughts to share that would be great too. 

PS

If you do not want to do yoga – let’s not forget that humor is also wonderful to add more of into your life…

So I end with this comic:

(update 3/27/18 – typos corrected)

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77 thoughts on “Favorite Place (doing yoga – photo challenge and yoga talk)”

    1. Thanks for taking the time to read and comment.
      One mark for “C”
      __
      And georgie – “B” kinda messes with my sense of balance ! But I do like the shadow of the colored balls in that one.

      Liked by 1 person

    1. welcome back welcome back welcome back

      🙂
      and let me ask you
      can you lie on your back, knees bent and then gently lift your hips?
      well if so – you can do a starter bridge pose.

      Can you bend at the waist, with loose knees, and let your head gentle float and maybe hook your hands around your elbows?
      You can do a standing forward fold.

      Can you go to the hands and knees – make a flat back – and on the inhale sink your spine – slightly – to cow – and then on the exhale raise your spine to arch like a cat???

      well there are many poses that you would be amazed to see how easy they are and how great they feel.
      even though i did laugh out loud with your funny note about “something akin to a boulder tumbling down the ravine…”

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Thank you!! 🤗🤗 hum, on the poses I will give a try, I always do envy the incredible amount of core strength that athletes have in figure skating and other sports from training in Yoga 👊 So if I don’t faceplant I may have hope ✌️

        Liked by 1 person

        1. yes -you are right about the athletes tapping into yoga – and I guess NFL players do it too – well some of them…
          keep me posted
          – and check out some podcasts for a little home guidance – I am new to exploring them but have found a few great ones already. If I make a podcast (later this year) I will send you the link…

          Liked by 2 people

  4. In contrast to others, Yvette, I like photo B. I like the slightly skewed angle, as it adds interest, and furthermore, the slightly wider shot so that you get a better idea of the form of the surrounding room. The photo itself is evocative of striving for a goal, a pathway, and this is a good focal point for the eye!
    And now, for my comments on Yoga! I love Yoga and have practised for over gosh…. 30 years. Sometimes I go to classes, sometimes not, but always start my day with a sun salutation and various balances and poses that have become a favourite for me. I integrate a bit of pilates in there too.My first class teacher was the very best, and we did so many different things over the years. She was wholly intuitive and could interpret my mood when I entered the yoga space. When she could moved on, I have tried others. Some are not concerned about alignment and safety, others don’t have a empathic energy, and another – my only experience of Bikram was the very worst of all. She almost threw me out of the class, she was rude and abusive and did not seem to understand the essence of yoga itself and of being in tune with one’s body. It was more like a punishment gym class!! But, other teachers have been beautifully serene and offer another angle to yoga than the next. Totally agree with you about corpse pose. I have had people walk over the top of me at a gym yoga class because they don’t see the point in hanging around to relax at the end of class! Yoga changed my life for the better and continues to do so. I love my daily practice!!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Oh thanks sooooo much for sharing your points after years of experience.
      The teacher experiences you shared are especially insightful because sometimes I was feeling “bitchy and stuck” but then I remind myself – um, “no, I have a right to say that I do not like a certain teacher without feeling like I am the problem – so this post was for my resolve…. and your feedback is refreshing because it is exactly what I have been pondering. Yoga teachers vary SO much and I wanted to make a post about this and maybe call it “dear yoga teacher – when you do this – well students feel this…” but maybe this post with the comments here can wake up some teachers and be a small resource.
      Further, your Brikham yoga teacher sounds similar to the one I referred to here (the one from Chicago).

      And if I were to make a post for yoga teachers – I think you made this would be cruual to share from your comment:

      some teachers are “intuitive and interpret” student moods and consider that when they teach the class!

      Some teachers are “not concerned about alignment and safety, others don’t have a empathic energy” and so all yoga teachers (or fitness folks who instruct) should get FEEDBACK to see how they are doing in this area. They might think they are all in tune but that limited self-insight is a human thing and we need input – or to at least make sure we try to monitor how we are doing in the eyes of others. There might be a time when a teacher is new and is getting basics down – they get a pass – but as teachers continue to grow as a teacher – they have to know accurately how they coming across (and Amanda – that ties into one of your recent Friday wisdom quotes… eh?)

      Lastly, the point about how you:
      “always start my day with a sun salutation and various balances and poses that have become a favourite for me”
      is something that grabs the heart of how naturally yoga becomes part of our life – or can – and how it wakes up or winds down the body (those various sun sals) and finding the balance poses that work for you was another key point. Because our body’s are so different – we have a liking for different poses – and it can change. But folks enjoy and thrive more when they find a pose that becomes a fav. It is a gift.
      I do a simple warrior 3 pose a few times if I have to go and speak. It feels so good for me and brings my breath deep into my lungs and just a few of them leaves me standing tall and centered.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Thanks for coming back to me on this, Yvette with a lovely comment. I can see that you get what I mean. I do think Yoga can change anyone’s life for the better, but I believe some teachers of Bikram are a bit like a child who has lost its way. I have tempered my opinion somewhat to when I wrote this post, https://forestwoodfolkart.wordpress.com/2012/07/28/bikram-fraud-or-fanatic/#comments as it was written when I was relatively new to blogging and was really fired up about the Bikram phenomenon. So read with caution if you like! And I don’t want to hammer you with another blog links, but you spoke of the warrior pose, and it is the foundation of my daily practice, taught to me by that wonderful first Yoga teacher I mentioned. https://forestwoodfolkart.wordpress.com/2014/09/14/be-a-warrior-every-morning-fight-the-aging-process/
        You are so right that our bodies are different in each individual way and we must tune in the needs each of us have. I do believe that Yoga has something beneficial to offer in every life phase. In times of stress, it has given me a way though the pain and chaos. It has also taught me to breathe correctly which has conquered various respiratory and asthmatic issues, given me relief from tension and neck pain, etc, but I wasn’t aware certain yoga poses could be useful for public or group speaking. I will definitely try that. I am not a yoga teacher by any stretch of the imagination. I will only ever by a Yoga student, but will happily spread the message about the multitude of benefits. I would be lost without Yoga!

        Liked by 1 person

        1. not sure why this was spammed???
          maybe the links….
          anyhow glad I caught it and I will check out the posts a bit later – but love your play on words: ” fired up about the Bikram ” hah
          and thanks for sharing all that you have gotten from yoga.
          And I actually enjoy public speaking so the poses that warm me up really just help my breathing (to go deep) and alignment – but I think people who “fear” public speaking could use different poses to calm, center, and quiet anything that needs to be quieted.
          —
          and I had no idea as to how much you love yoga and it is so nice to know we share this…
          —
          hope you have a pleasant day

          Like

        2. WordPress thinks I am spam 😐😐. Lol…
          You noticed the pun about Bikram too. And I was fired up. I did go back for a second class but made sure I chose a different teacher, and although the teacher was much more aligned with my idea of yoga, it was a very early class and it didnt go that well as I become severely dehydrated …
          I too am so pleased we share the common interest and passion. What got you started on this journey?

          Liked by 1 person

        3. I get spammed and trashed a lot – but sometimes it has to do with leaving a link…
          and you were wise to try another teacher…

          🙂
          and for me – I always dabbled in yoga – and was even signed up for a fancy retreat in 2002 but canceled and lost money – and want to know why? I was a little intimidated that I was not advanced enough to be on that kind of retreat. I did not realize it at the time that that was my reason…
          anyhow, took classes here and there and then in 2013 (or 2012) I stumbled on Adrienne Reed yoga (out of Tampa, Fla) and I hope to do some more training with her studio this year or next year!
          and…
          I thank this sweet friend of mine, Mia, because she talked me into going to hot yoga cos I never thought I would like it – I thank her all the time…

          Liked by 1 person

        4. I do wish I would have liked hot yoga, but I am afraid I can’t go back now, for the reasons I outlined in that post. But I am glad you have found your yoga niche. That is very important. You will stick with it and maintain it, if it syncs with you. I am about to try a new class with my daughter, just so that she can experience the benefits. I no longer need to go to a structured class as such, but I will learn something new from this teacher, just as I have done with every other teacher, including the awful Bikram teacher!!! Mia must be a lovely friend to have!!!

          Liked by 1 person

        7. 🙂
          yes – good point – but you know, I still would not go to that retreat even today – I think there was also a snobbiness I felt back then – and I am just an everyday person and cannot stand being around folks who think they are elite, extra special, or overly proud (I like them as humans – but feel nauseated – hahahha ) so the retreat was maybe for the elite – ha – have a nice day

          Like

        8. If that was your feeling Yvette, it was better you didn’t go along. Yoga elitists have not yet fully understood the underlying principles that yoga meditation can bring or the humanitarian spirit within the practice.

          Liked by 1 person

  5. I think I prefer A, C, B in that order! Yoga, hmmm. I’ve only tried it a few times. The instructor was a lady closer to my age so it was pretty good. Since I can’t place my hands flat (push ups, downward dog, etc.), I don’t have much interest in yoga. Although I did do some alternate/modified moves. It’s been quite a while since I’ve done anything but I’m getting much closer. There’s a nice new gym here that is now taking Silver Sneakers so hubby, myself and another couple are getting ready to start. My friend and I plan mostly on attending some of the classes, i.e. Zumba, core/fit, etc. while the guys do the machine circuit. Of course, she and I will incorporate the machines, too, maybe, probably, maybe…. Anyway, we’ve just got to whip ourselves back into shape even if we can’t do what we did 10, 20, 30, etc…. (you get the idea) years ago! Have a wonderful week! 😀

    Liked by 1 person

    1. okay a gets a mark and thanks for the ordering of pref…

      I did not know that about your hands cannot go flat – and that does make a difference in the poses you do,…

      and side note – I know way too many yogis who have issues with wrists and shoulders – which is another reason why I think I am extra selective about teachers. One small injury to a wrist or shoulder can become a problem for years.
      and I think a few years ago an editor form a yoga jounral magazine noted that she was not doing Chaturanga correctly and this caused her injury! And so for a few months it seemed like all these teachers (and sites) were raising awareness about possible injury from Chaturanga – and that is a good thing and is another reason we go slow…
      I have a new teacher I really like for this power class (after not doing power for months I eased back in) but I NOW know that before I go to her class – i need to stretch my wrists really well – because she is heavy on the arm stuff….and she does not do the amount of warm up I personally need – but she does a little – so she is not missing anything like my chicago gal – but in this case I just need mas….
      —
      and be sure to try chair yoga – the right teacher can make chair yoga amazing. I have seen chair yoga done poorly and have seen it done really well – but it sounds like it would be something that would cater to your needs.

      The silver sneakers sounds awesome and it also sounds like you have a balanced approach…
      🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      1. All of this is so true. Yeh, putting my hands flat on the floor puts too much pressure on my wrists and I always end up with tendinitis. Since I’ve been a typist for 40 years, I’m always cautious because I definitely don’t want carpal tunnel/surgery! But I always find ways to work around things! 😀

        Liked by 1 person

  6. I like photo C. I like the perspective- like you are on the mat, and the 3 balls all lined up appeal to my sense of order! I took Yoga many years ago when I stopped working and felt I needed to do something about how “high strung” I was. I LOVED my teacher. She brought a peacefullness to the class, serenity, and always corrected my position by physically showing me how to align myself. I attended her classes 3 times a week. As you said, I started out with no flexibility and became more flexible as the months wore on, my body more toned. However, she moved away a few years later and I have never found anyone as good as her. One teacher had real “attitude” and the women in the class were actually competitive with one another. So not what Yoga was all about as far as I was I concerned. I always loved that the idea of modifying a pose to suit you if you could not entirely get into it- being kind to oneself, well now I’m on a rant- but I am thankful I had such a wonderful teacher to introduce me to Yoga. I still try try to practice at home and always feel better after doing so.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. thanks for the mini rant – and you were on a roll and it was good – so much here to piggy back on.,

      but first – the
      “being kind to oneself”
      also at the heart of yoga as we let self-judgments dissipate and try to lighten up on the demands we place on ourself (side note on that – in the very classic book “Adult Children of Alcoholics” they say adult children of parents who used addiction to cope and escape with – well a byproduct of that in the adult children might be “coming down way too hard on themselves” and forgetting to show self-kindness – go figure!
      __
      and I have seen that some teachers (and students) can get weird about the helping with alignment. It sounds like your yoga teacher had a gift for it. One of my former teachers, Challie, was masterful with this and I think she gave me chiropractic work one year when she merely helped me do a supine side twist. My lower back needed whatever she helped align. I am still amazed by that.
      and sorry your teacher moved on…. such a loss – but it also sounds like by showing you how to align yourself – well maybe her legacy lives on with your self-practice…. ahhhh the rippling impact of teachers!
      and also the note on the ‘tude some teachers bring – and it does not surprise me that the students in there had a competitive vibe – like attract like –
      __
      and this:
      “So not what Yoga was all about as far as I was I concerned.”
      I fully agree and the reason we cannot compare is because sometimes yoga results are not about being advanced – it has to do with body genetics and proportions – for example – some folks with short arms might never feel comfy with “noose pose” – even with years of training.
      Sometimes super flexible people come to the mat and might have a”locked lotus” but it has nothing to do with being advanced. They have loose hips – and then some folks have worked at lotus for years but might have a tight ball and socket that will never (well maybe never) do that type of pretzel-legged position – you know?
      It is about training and learning, but body type really matters too. and that is why we cannot compare (and I hate that insecure competitive spirit)

      Like

      1. All I can say is YOU ARE AWESOME. My teacher’s corrections were gentle and slight, I welcomed them to improve form. Ok so when can I take a class with you???💖💖💖

        Liked by 1 person

        1. that really made me smile – and woo hoo – you rock too

          🙂

          and whenever you are in the area – yoga is on
          Sunday Nights (most) through December…
          and seriously – maybe we can connect sometime because you are right “up” I-95!
          — and I am still learning how to correct and adjust as I advance as a teacher. There is a lot to learn….
          so far I am good with adjusting students in child’s pose = and a little with down dog – but if the class is large I do not adjust with dog because it takes so long – or you can stagger how you help…
          but I have never sat on anyone.
          This really cool teacher named Sherri sat on a guy (he asked and they are good friends) and it brought his hips way down in child’s pose. It was funny

          Like

  7. I like A.
    B looks like there is a ramp to bowl the ball down.
    C is too ordered.
    I would have cropped the rest of the room out of the photos too 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. hahah – I did not realize that but it does have that bowling vibe – with the gutters from the blocks – lol
      and good idea to crop – it would have given another option too – hm

      Liked by 1 person

  9. I can understand the chemistry between teacher and students. I agreed if you have choices you should find a teacher that inspires you or matches your personality. I can’t comment much of other parts of yoga 🙂

    Oh, for the picture, my favorite goes to ‘C’. The 3 balls keep the whole focus more balance than ‘A’. The ‘B’ is too tilting for me. I am OCD about symmetry 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. well thanks – another mark for C

      and thanks for noting that there is also a personality compatibility – I mentioned needs and preference – but you are right
      “should find a teacher that inspires you or matches your personality” 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  11. I tell people they must do the same yoga routine 3 days in a row before they can give up, because the amazing thing about yoga is that you can literally witness your own improvement every single time you do it. I’m not big on classes, but I’ve done yoga off and on since the womb. I’ve learned it’s absolutely necessary for me to do yoga or stretching every day or I pay for it, lol! Twisting is really important for me, apparently. Miss a couple of days, SPASM! lol Gah. Yoga has the added advantage of being good for my chi, my spirit, my anxiety, my insides, however one words it.
    Anyway, I wouldn’t partake in hot yoga. I can barely stand opening the oven or making a roux, I’d be miserable. I certainly wouldn’t wanna bust into sun salutation, push-up, plank — to me, those are pretty much burpees, hm? That’s too intense for me.I have some pilates videos and I do those on occasion — would love to take some time on a reformer, perhaps when I’m more me-focused.

    I like photo B the best 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. one more mark for photo B – 🙂
      and
      LOve the idea of the three times in a row – and I will borrow that!
      I also read that it could take at least 20 times of doing a single pose in order for the body to really get a feel for that pose… .
      And sometimes I remind newbies that down dog and child’s pose might not be the “rest and reset” pose for them right away – it could take a long time – I learned this first hand and see it a lot.

      Those poses do not feel good (or restful) right away – well not for everyone.

      —
      I also loved your point about “witness your own improvement every single time you do it.”
      that is at the heart of yoga that people do not realize this very individual and private journey a practice should be.
      thanks for bringing it up – the goal is to stay on “self” and not compare what others are doing – and then to see the beauty “every time” you practice is something that takes “doing” to feel the joy of…
      and I thank Adrienne Reed Yoga – her short TV segments really helped me see that too
      __
      and let’s quote Joey on this…
      Yoga can help:

      my chi, my spirit, my anxiety, my insides….

      ___
      funny that you would mention pilates right after the oven example – because my husband always says some of these names sound like food. And he will have some “Pilates with fried chaturanga and a beer, please.”
      —

      Like

    1. well thanks so much, Kay.
      and the colors were something that changed things for me too.
      and sometimes looking too much at any of these pics seems to impact my balance. ha

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Miriam thanks for sharing that you practice Ashtanga – even though I am a still little unsure as to what really makes Ashtanga so different maybe you could explain.
      I heard it was about stirring up “inner heat” and once had a teacher tell us to try and not drink during a fast flow practice because it puloled from the heat – but then she said drink if we needed to but to aim for that.
      And I beleive that was in line with Ashtanga thinking – which emphaiszes “fast-paced, intense, and the same order of poses with the goal to heat up the core”
      and our richmond studio that claims to be ashtanga also seems to have “gentle” restorative” and even some others but they call themselves Ashtanga.

      So I am just curious as to how you define this style… 🙂

      – and side note – if anyone is looking for the types of yoga explained more – I like this “very well” page here:
      https://www.verywellfit.com/types-of-yoga-cheat-sheet-3566894

      Liked by 1 person

      1. I bought Richmond’s videos. He is strong with no fat. I also google ashtanga movement sets and instructions. There is a set of basics that repeats in between other advanced movements. It’s the smooth movement (slower for beginners, but I can’t keep up with Richmond. My SIL could) that keeps the flow of energy – like Tai Chi.
        My good teacher always said if you can’t do such and such steps, come back to this and that or in fetal position.
        Thank you for the link.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. thanks for the info – and I have never h eard of Richmond and will check it out (((I love reading up on this topic when I have time – there is so much to learn! – like last week rabbit trail on Kripalu yoga and how the founder of this movement was sleeping with students – whoa! but what led me there is a yoga mentor for me is Carol Shwidock from Harmony Yoga in CT and this is style is intertwined in her teaching style – and whatever she does in her basic classes is what I strive to give in a basic class – she also has OT in her background and I think this shows in her teaching – safety, and the way she notes “that’s not your goal, your goal here is…” so I will look up Richmond and more on this style…)
          __
          and when I lived in Northern Cal I sometimes drove by the groups of folks doing Tai Chi and it always fascinated me….

          Liked by 1 person

        2. I’m sorry, it’s Richard Freeman. My sister does Tai Chi regularly in Hong Kong. She posted some of her demonstration videos on FB.
          I tried to follow the YouTube but it’s hard unless they do mirror image.

          Liked by 1 person

        3. yes- and I have just found some nice podcasts I am going to check out next month.
          I can do solo yoga – but sometimes following a guide is way better – or doing a class… not sure why

          Liked by 1 person

    1. I am not exactly sure as to what you mean that you would “struggle to find a teacher outside of a gym”?
      —
      but one little suggestion someone gave me was to check out some yoga podcasts – there are a variety of yoga podcasts – some offer a guided practice that can be done at home – and some are really good – even though I am still checking them out myself.
      🙂

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  15. Pingback: Favorite Place – Klinkenbergerplas 3 – What's (in) the picture?

  17. Maybe the 3rd, just because it’s a bit different and there are so many yoga photos out there these days, that it’s a bit different to come across something different 🙂
    I do just a bit of yoga these days. I like to do a few poses before bed, just to help me relax a bit. My fav class ever was when I was pregnant.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. well thanks – you are right about so many yoga pics out there. ((and I am not even on instagram or pinterest where I can imagine there are plethora)
      and this photo is actually a place I NEVER do yoga at – but was with the hubs and grabbed a mat and did a half hour on my own and then grabbed my camera when I remebered the wpc.
      But i might not ever do yoga in this spot again (and yes, there were some weightlifters nearby – all had necks still…)
      — and sounds like a nice way to wind down…
      also – heard prego yoga is amazing…

      Liked by 1 person

  18. I’m weird. Kundalini yoga is the only yoga I know relatve to positooning body contortions with energy centers (chakras). I can relate to the linear alignment throughout A which is consistent and not leaning.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks for your comment (sorry for late reply – I missed this) and I am learning more about chakras – even though I prefer to stay away from religion or new age stuff in yoga, I believe the body has the pathways of energy and they feel good to release and be in tune with – as you noted…
      thx again for your comment

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  19. Great post, amigo. I really love this quote from Bhagavad Gita: “Yoga is the practice of tolerating the consequences of being yourself.” There’s certainly a process and the more involved we get mentally, physically, and spiritually the more aligned we’d be with our ‘selves.’ Though yoga poses are external the day we internalize them there’d be an intrinsic flow without our knowledge. Guess that takes time.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. wow – cool quote and feel like it is one I could listen to people discuss what it means – I would like to hear how they break it down.
      —
      and I like your quote even more:

      Though yoga poses are external the day we internalize them there’d be an intrinsic flow without our knowledge

      and also – omg can some of this take time – so true

      Liked by 1 person

  20. Your love for yoga shines through this post Y and shavasna is my favorite pose! Actually that’s why I cannot seem to find time to do yoga, because I like to take my time to do this asana between asanas and I end up needing almost an hour everyday which is just not available. But with summers coming and your atoz challenge perhaps I will get up an hour earlier and go for it 🙂 I like all the photos but i think i like C the best as it gives a view of how it would look while doing yoga – have a great day.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. well i am sop curious as to the “h” in this word – I have seen
      savasana
      shavasna
      can you tell me the difference?

      —
      and thanks for the feedback – another mark for C
      __
      and you really added fuel to my planning by saying this:

      and your atoz challenge perhaps

      was that to say you are looking forward to my posts – well gracias if so….
      __
      good day to you

      Liked by 1 person

      1. But of course I am looking forward to your AtoZ posts! And I am glad you asked that question – it is all about the different languages in India and attendant differences in pronunciation. In Hindi and Bengali (my mother tongue) there are at least 3-4 versions/variations of the letter S depending on where it is used. And hence we tend to say sh however in many South Indian languages it is pronounced as s and they also drag out the end of any word that ends in a consonant.
        If I were to say it I would pronounce it as shavasan. Minus the ‘a’ at the end. Similarly we also have 4-5 variations of T/D which makes it very difficult to write/express it in English, in fact even many people from here as well are unable to pronounce some of the versions. I hope I managed to explain rather than confuse/complicate matters 😀 All the best for the challenge!

        Liked by 1 person

  21. I agree with your take on yoga instructors. My instructor is the most amazing woman who has created such an incredible community at our studio, I can’t imagine not feeling that!

    Liked by 1 person

  22. Yvette, I’m so glad you talked about yoga and how to try different classes and to be more forgiving of oneself. I thought that because I had tried it a couple of times but it always seemed to regimented and far above my skill level. Recently I had a physical therapist suggest just finding some vinyasa yoga either in person on on a video and try that, which was more moving than standing still, and now I do a few yoga moves when I’m doing my cool-down and stretching after my (new-beginner) jogging routine. Thanks, Yvette!

    Liked by 1 person

  23. I cannot agree with you more. It truly is “different strokes for different folks” especially so when it comes to yoga. Not only the type of class, but also (without a doubt) the personality and/or teaching style of the trainer.
    The whole purpose of yoga is to connect with one’s inner self in the best way possible, and anything that comes in between that goal should definitely be addressed. I have attended classes of many a well-known and highly knowledgable trainer. But their style wasn’t for me. I always ended up feeling uncomfortable and guilty because of feeling so. It was only later on I realised the mistake I was making. I go to a yoga class for a very selfish reason of discovering myself. That time is not meant to appease fellow yogis or teachers. It is only and only for me. Once I gained this clarity, my practice itself elevated to new levels. It doesn’t matter how famous or not, or knowledgable or not a trainer is. He/She should aid you in reaching your ultimate goal. That’s all that matters!
    So many yogis (especially fresh ones) fail to grasp this key context. Glad to see that you did:)

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    1. Hi – it was so nice to read your comment and very interesting to hear about your experience with the teachers and your point about how yoga “time is not meant to appease fellow yogis or teachers.”
      However, I also realized something else – I realized how subjective our views can be about what the purpose of yoga is or should be. You noted this:

      “The whole purpose of yoga is to connect with one’s inner self in the best way possible”
      and I can see that –
      but I know many folks that do it for the workout – they do it for injury prevention – and maybe that is still part of connecting to the inner self, but I do not think all who do yoga view the purpose of yoga in their life the same way.
      I see it is as breathing deeper/better and learning to become one with the breath for physical health. I see yoga as cleaning up the waste from the sympathetic nervous system and allowing the parasympathetic nervous system to engage – and flow – and then that trickles into immune boosting. I know some would say that the main purpose of yoga is all about “body alignment” (and I have some poses I call chiropractic…)
      A regular yoga practice can be injury prevention, mental agility training, honing mind and body synchronicity, joint opening, heart opening, and decompressing the organs as many asanas offer digestive tonics. Yoga poses can get into the fascia and maybe even heal things we are not aware of as our breath goes deep into the lungs and….
      oh there is so much to be enjoyed from yoga, as poses offer challenge at times and then some rest and reset – ok – enough rambling,

      and MANY thanks for taking the time to share your wisdom and personal experience
      🙂

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      1. Very very true. Yoga has so many things to offer. Its truly astonishing how it can satisfyingly cater to a wide variety of people.
        What I expressed was completely in my humblest opinion. Tbh, my own needs from yoga were pretty diverse at different points in my path.
        So yes, whatever our goal is, it would do us a load of good if we can lucidly identify what we are currently seeking from the practice and be honest with ourselves about whether that need is being met by the class/teacher.
        That being said, I truly believe that whatever reason one may have, if the practice is earnest, then yoga is bound to offer what one seeks in due course of time.
        Thank you again for your insighful piece. It was relatable through and through. 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

  24. Thanks for coming back to reply – and the more I chew on your mian purpose – the more I realize how SOUND it is.
    I used to be a counselor and still do it sometimes – and even when I teach life skills workshops – one of the biggest things we teach is that true health is about
    accurate self-awareness –
    and yoga does help that in all areas – how aware are you of the breath, the mind body connection, letting go to be, and all of what you said.

    🙂

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