A European friend introduced me to the writing and words of John O’Donohue. I’ve turned to John’s words at times when I’ve sought greater clarity and hope. This one interview covers a wide variety of topics, and if you listen to the whole thing it’s likely that at least one story or topic will resonate and inspire.
Just a few topics covered in this interview include:
(On Meister Eckhart) “He said an amazing thing in one of his latin writings: “There is a place in the soul that neither time, nor flesh, nor any created thing can ever touch.” So that means like, that there’s a place within you where no one has ever got to you, where you’re not damaged, or where there is no negativity in you, but where there is a pure tranquility within you.
If you are new to yoga you may be wondering how to get started. Yoga may be one word with little nuance, or perhaps you’ve heard about a few styles and you’re wondering whether your first yoga experience should be a Hatha yoga session? Is Vinyasa right for you? What about Ashtanga? Or Iyengar? Or Power? This article will help broaden your understanding of the styles of yoga that are available.
Best For: Ashtangis, Int. Vinysasa Students, Teachers
The feeling of “float” that is an important component of various transitions during Ashtanga Primary Series can be difficult for beginners to access. Picking oneself up from seated, lifting one’s own body weight, and swinging back during the seated series of poses in Primary Series can be called a Jump Back (Grimmly shown above in the first 20 seconds). A correctly executed Jump Back has a moment of float in it.
Learning from a teacher who truly understands his/her subject gives me insight into the real meaning of power. To see some masterful teaching, check out this site: http://mathforum.org/dr/math/ They won’t teach you yoga. They will teach you math. (And I nominate Dr. Peterson for the Nobel Peace Prize.)
In the movie Road to Perdition the gangsters seem to have trouble with math. The inclusion of this detail suggests that learning opens doors which otherwise might be closed. Those who don’t have know-how, support and encouragement can wind up feeling they depend on the likes of Mr. Rooney to survive (and we see where that leads).
I’ve learned a few things on YouTube. The choreographers of Flashdance knew Purvottanasana. The Forbidden Kingdom has a great fight scene. And you can find inspiration for moving toward your full potential in yoga by watching how people move in other disciplines.
When I first started watching the movements of practitioners trained in different disciplines, I was turning over in my mind the idea of effortless flow. “What is possible in yoga teaching and practice?” was a thought spinning about at the back of my mind.
Note: the second Friday of each month includes an OPTIONAL group discussion which is held from 11:15am – 12:15 pm. Students can attend yoga class at regular rates. Cost to attend both yoga and discussion is $20. Discussion only is $20.
Class Description:
Yoga poses are woven into a fun, athletic, flowing series of movements, interspersed with elements that seek to challenge, soothe and restore the body and mind. Students are encouraged to adapt the exercises and poses to their own bodies and comfort level. Experienced students will notice the influence of Ashtanga, Vinyasa and Iyengar styles. Students are welcome to remain for an additional half hour after class to socialize and help put away props.
