Florida State University's Flying High Circus

I had to post a blurb about the FSU Circus because I went to the opening night and was amazed. The show was free for students and it was full of excitement.

Two of my students were top performers last night; therefore, it is totally Yoga related! The students tried out for the team in the Fall and those who were successful have been practicing ever since. I keep hearing about the chin-up achievements and the increase flexibility. I have seen four different Cirque Du Soleil performances and I loved 'Spectacular' just the same. It was great to see a performing team that has such a long standing tradition of excellence. It is rare to see an opportunity at a University that involves producing and performing in a high quality circus.

The precision, patience and strength needed last night was phenomenal. There was tight rope walking, juggling, unicycling, Trapeze, lion taming and Spanish rope ballet. My nerves were racing and it was amazing to see a performer capture their challenging skills. There were millions of different acts and setting up the props had to be done with precision. Teamwork led the way to a successful 2.5 hour show. I might go back for another free show.

From a Yoga perspective, practitioners and instructors can relate based on the amount of time and energy they put into their practice. Each posture, and breath takes practice. Your body is constantly changing and adapting. I am sure that some of the freshman Circus performers will grow stronger over the years and see a huge improvement in their skills. There were lots of partner poses similar to Yoga as well.

Make some time to check out the 'Spectacular' Circus at FSU and maybe consider trying out yourself.
Website: http://circus.fsu.edu/

flying high

Whitney

Etiquette and Comparison

Ideally, instructors and participants want the perfect class.  A class with communal energy, inspiring words of wisdom and a balance in the variety of postures, sounds ideal. We are not all looking for the white picket fence and Julie Child's perfect cooking techniques. Unfortunately, we all have our own vision of the perfect class on the specific day. It does not always turn out to be perfect but it is important to modify and work with what you can. Giving-up is not always the best option. Work with your emotions and do not let them overcome your designated time for physical, mental and spiritual release.

The challenge of setting aside the time to practice Yoga or exercise in a group is admirable, and it is hard when the class does not suit your needs. Trying to modify the class to suit you and  reaching for the positive will only make your time worthwhile.

Recently, I have noticed a difference between my Yoga classes and my body tone class at my fitness center. Yoga class continues to hold strong attendance and when people have to leave early they tell me in advance. The students love the class but they have academic time tables, too. In my body tone class, lately students have been leaving ten minutes before the end of the 55 minute class.  They leave as soon as stretching and the final steps begin. As soon as one person leaves nine more follow. One student always reminds me that she has class and has to dart quickly before the end of class. Thank you for consideration. It is hard to understand whether a student is appreciating the class or completely miserable.

Another significant difference I have noticed is the level of energy and stimulation found in each class. Yogis are constantly challenging themselves, asking questions and looking for more opportunity to practice. The body tone participants are far from engaging because they keep their cell phones close, leave early, and struggle putting the equipment away properly. Who answers their cell phone and texts during a workout? Not all participants in each category I mentioned above match up, but this is the majority.

My body tone class could be lagging because I am much more focused on Yoga and incorporate alignment and breath throughout the class. The students in body tone are looking for someone to motivate them throughout the whole class and give them the "perfect" workout. Yogis seem to be always ready for a new pace and style. They show more exploration and bring their own energy to share with the students.

Last night I went to a restaurant to specifically have its Tallahassee, FL famous black bean burger. The black bean burger was unavailable and two of us were disappointed. We had anticipated the ideal meal and it was hard to find another item on the menu. After a little adapting and looking further into the options I chose the perfect item. I survived and had a black bean burger today at another location. Somehow the stars aligned and I was able to have what I wanted a day later.

Finally, if a class does not suit your needs talk to the instructor and see if they have any suggestions. Share your insights or just move on after the class is completed. The instructor wants to give their best and it is nice to share in the giving energy. Karma.

Peace friends.

Whitney =)

Elsie's Yoga Class

After the Anusara workshop with Joyce Savitz I downloaded Elsie's Yoga classes from itunes. They are free classes and I practiced with one yesterday Monday morning. It was a beginner class that focused on opening your shoulders, hamstrings as a preparation for downward facing dog. The class avoided wrist pressure postures and used the wall for about twenty minutes.  The class was great and I shared her wall stretches with my evening Intro to Vinyasa class and FSU Yoga class. It was a nice change of pace.

Spring 2010 semester has been loaded with power and core Yoga classes. I have been teaching high-paced, energetic classes. The problem with these classes is that the Yogis were exhausted after class and starting to show potential for injury. Slowing down the practice and focusing on proper alignment is going to be my final phase before I graduate and move to my next destination.

Check out Elsie's Free Podcasts on itunes.

namaste readers!

Anusara Inspired!

Four years ago I started practicing Yoga in Loretto, PA with my sociology professor. Every Wednesday I went to track practice early, so that I could attend Yoga class. The class was in a damp and cold church recreational hall. I loved the class and started sharing my experiences with my teammates. Shortly after my church Yoga experience, I was certified, practicing, and teaching Yoga classes.


Recently, as in this weekend, I went to a Anusara workshop with Joyce Savitz (www.jacksonvilleyoga.com). I took two of her two hour yoga workshops and fell in love with Anusara. Derived from Iyengar Yoga, it focuses on alignment and opening your heart. Joyce went through postures with effective cues and extensive insight from her personal practice. After my first class I left feeling rejuvenated and inspired to continue the Anusara practice.


Today, I have been searching the web looking for workshops and teachers offering classes. My journey has begun to further explore alignment and to grow in my personal practice with Anusara.


Off to do more Anusara research =)