...on the main Bikram 101 blog today! Follow the link to read my post for day 80!
3.21.2010
3.15.2010
My article for the BYN e-newsletter!
I have made several unsuccessful attempts to post an actual copy of my studio’s March e-newsletter in all its original glory, but I can’t seem to make it work. So here is a copy of the student article written by yours truly! As I mentioned before, I'm so grateful to Audrey & Jeff (owners of Bikram Yoga Northampton) for giving me this opportunity. A few people I practice with have mentioned that they really enjoyed the article, and at least one of them said they want to try doing a challenge! YAY! My studio really does feel like a home to me, and so being able to connect with even more students there is very rewarding. I love expanding my yoga family!
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Up for the challenge? Then make a commitment… to yourself!
Written by Stephanie Marek.
How often do you practice Bikram yoga? Have you ever thought about coming to class more frequently than you do now? What about if you made the commitment to come everyday? That’s a tall order for most students. For me though, that has become my reality. As a participant in the worldwide Bikram 101 Challenge, I’m trying to reach the goal of completing 101 Bikram classes in 101 consecutive days. Therefore, since January 1st I’ve been going to class each and every day!
The reasons I decided to take on such a hefty challenge are similar to the reasons why I started practicing Bikram in the first place. I was looking to lift my psyche, to regain focus, and to commit to something that was personally fulfilling. Additionally, I knew the challenge would strengthen my practice and transform my body. Now, at almost 70 days in, I can say that all of those things are being realized. It’s been a pretty amazing experience!
It’s certainly not always easy, though. And I’m not just talking about all the yoga. Finding the motivation every single day can get difficult. I quickly realized this was as much a mental challenge as a physical one (if not more mental). Also, I’ve had to make some adjustments just due to logistics. For example, I’ve had to alter my regular Monday through Friday, 9 to 5:30 work schedule whereby I leave early on some days for class and then work extra time on other days to make up for it. I’ve also had to sacrifice a lot of my free time normally spent with family and friends. That is probably the hardest part, but it’s not forever. Also, I know that when I’m saying “no” to certain social invitations what I’m really doing is saying “yes” to myself. It feels very empowering, and I never have any regrets or feel like I’m missing out. The people in all facets of my life understand this and are incredibly supportive. And to me, being personally fulfilled means I have more to offer back to those I care about anyway. It’s all been so worth it.
Making Bikram a part of daily life is something I would like to encourage all my fellow students at Bikram Yoga Northampton to try sometime by doing a challenge. It won’t be easy, but then most things that are worth doing aren’t. Your challenge can start on any day you choose and be however long you decide- 7 days, 10 days, 30 days, or more. A challenge of any length will provide excellent healing benefits. Not to mention the well-earned sense of accomplishment you will feel upon completion. Maybe you even have a mat buddy (or two, or three) that you can rope into doing it with you- there’s nothing like a little group energy to provide inspiration and motivation! The idea is just to decide whatever challenge is right for you and commit to it. Every day. Your practice will change, your body will change, and your life will change! You’ll actually be making a commitment to yourself, and you won’t regret it!
Stephanie has been practicing at BYN since October of 2009. She works as a full-time Media Buyer for a local advertising agency. Someday she hopes to go to Bikram Teacher Training. The Bikram 101 Challenge is her first challenge and you can read more about her experience at http://ladyyogaga.blogspot.com/.
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Up for the challenge? Then make a commitment… to yourself!Written by Stephanie Marek.
How often do you practice Bikram yoga? Have you ever thought about coming to class more frequently than you do now? What about if you made the commitment to come everyday? That’s a tall order for most students. For me though, that has become my reality. As a participant in the worldwide Bikram 101 Challenge, I’m trying to reach the goal of completing 101 Bikram classes in 101 consecutive days. Therefore, since January 1st I’ve been going to class each and every day!
The reasons I decided to take on such a hefty challenge are similar to the reasons why I started practicing Bikram in the first place. I was looking to lift my psyche, to regain focus, and to commit to something that was personally fulfilling. Additionally, I knew the challenge would strengthen my practice and transform my body. Now, at almost 70 days in, I can say that all of those things are being realized. It’s been a pretty amazing experience!
It’s certainly not always easy, though. And I’m not just talking about all the yoga. Finding the motivation every single day can get difficult. I quickly realized this was as much a mental challenge as a physical one (if not more mental). Also, I’ve had to make some adjustments just due to logistics. For example, I’ve had to alter my regular Monday through Friday, 9 to 5:30 work schedule whereby I leave early on some days for class and then work extra time on other days to make up for it. I’ve also had to sacrifice a lot of my free time normally spent with family and friends. That is probably the hardest part, but it’s not forever. Also, I know that when I’m saying “no” to certain social invitations what I’m really doing is saying “yes” to myself. It feels very empowering, and I never have any regrets or feel like I’m missing out. The people in all facets of my life understand this and are incredibly supportive. And to me, being personally fulfilled means I have more to offer back to those I care about anyway. It’s all been so worth it.
Making Bikram a part of daily life is something I would like to encourage all my fellow students at Bikram Yoga Northampton to try sometime by doing a challenge. It won’t be easy, but then most things that are worth doing aren’t. Your challenge can start on any day you choose and be however long you decide- 7 days, 10 days, 30 days, or more. A challenge of any length will provide excellent healing benefits. Not to mention the well-earned sense of accomplishment you will feel upon completion. Maybe you even have a mat buddy (or two, or three) that you can rope into doing it with you- there’s nothing like a little group energy to provide inspiration and motivation! The idea is just to decide whatever challenge is right for you and commit to it. Every day. Your practice will change, your body will change, and your life will change! You’ll actually be making a commitment to yourself, and you won’t regret it!
Stephanie has been practicing at BYN since October of 2009. She works as a full-time Media Buyer for a local advertising agency. Someday she hopes to go to Bikram Teacher Training. The Bikram 101 Challenge is her first challenge and you can read more about her experience at http://ladyyogaga.blogspot.com/.
3.04.2010
Not a real post...
But just a note to say I'm very excited that this month I will be writing a little piece for Bikram Yoga Northampton's recently launched e-newsletter! I'll be sharing a bit about my experience doing this challenge and encouraging other students at my home studio to try doing challenges of their own! I'm so grateful to Audrey & Jeff - owners of BYN - for giving me this opportunity! I'm honored to be one of the voices speaking to my peers that I practice along side of everyday. Yay! Another channel through which to spread my yoga love!
2.24.2010
Long overdue post about posture clinic with Diane Ducharme
The halfway point of this challenge was punctuated by a special event for me; on day 51 I attended a posture clinic given by Diane Ducharme. You may remember a previous post about when she guest taught at my home studio. Her reputation in the Bikram world precedes her. Therefore, I was really, extra, super excited to take her seminar! And at this point I need to give a shout out to my Fairy God-Yogini, Jenn, who made it possible for me to even go in the first place… Jenn, you’re the best! Thank you!!!
For my non-yogi friends reading who don’t know what a posture clinic is, I will explain. Basically, it’s when a VERY senior Bikram teacher leads a group (usually a mix of students and other teachers) through the series of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises at a much slower pace- 6 hours, versus 90 minutes for a regular class. It is conducted in a hot room, but the heat is not cranked as high as usual since most of the time you're just listening while the seminar leader answers questions and discusses every posture in detail.
A posture clinic is an appropriate forum to get individual help. It's perfectly okay to ask questions about your own specific challenges, or you can just ask the leader to observe you doing a posture so you can get some personalized feedback. Plus, the teachers authorized to lead these seminars are actually allowed to touch students when they’re giving corrections. Overall, at posture clinic you learn a lot of neat tips – “secrets” as Diane calls them – about every posture in the series, and you also get tailored-for-you, hands-on help with the trouble spots in your practice. What you learn won’t necessarily make the postures any easier, but it will help you achieve better form. And with Bikram yoga, form is key since the emphasis is all on trying the right way.
It is important to note that the format of a regular Bikram class never allows for this level of depth and personal attention. Due to the specific pacing of the Bikram dialogue there’s just not enough time. And per Bikram himself, regular teachers are supposed to refrain from touching students when giving corrections. Therefore, a posture clinic is a very useful tool for anyone who wants to take his or her practice to the next level.
My day at posture clinic started fairly early (for a Saturday, for me). I was up and on the road before 8:30, as I had to travel out to Bikram Yoga Auburn where it was being held. The sun was shining and the hour in the car flew by (belting out Lada Gaga really helps pass the time). When I got there I was a little nervous since I’ve never practiced anywhere but at Bikram Yoga Northampton. I knew some other people from BYN who would be coming, but they hadn’t arrived yet so I was on my own for the moment. I immediately liked the vibe of the Auburn studio though. It was bustling with eager yogis and it felt bright and homey. The lobby was being staged for a Shakti trunk sale, and in the hot room another class was just finishing up. There was a good energy and I could sense right away it was going to be a fun day.
On the agenda was a regular class taught by Diane from 10-11:30, then posture clinic from 12-6. Taking the regular class first was optional, but I knew it would be a good way to get warmed up. Plus, I had to get a regular class in to count for the challenge anyway (I’m a purist). Soon my friends from BYN got there and it was time to head into the hot room and claim our spots. It ended up that all 5 of us were right beside each other in the front row- I was next to the podium! There were about 60 attendees in all, and we were PACKED in there like sardines! At least, it seemed that way to me; I’m used to having a couple of feet on either side of me when I practice. However, for this event there were strict instructions upon check-in: Mats 6 inches apart! I thought I was going to hate it being so crowded, but it was actually a really cool experience. The group energy from that many people breathing and moving together was awesome! I thought my practice was pretty strong and focused. I tried really hard to maintain good form because I wanted to represent for BYN and be a shining example of the outstanding level of teaching there. :)
After class there was a 30 minute break. Everyone put on fresh practice clothes, refilled their water bottles and munched down snacks. Then, all 60 of us piled back into the hot room and the posture clinic began. Everyone chilled on their mats (well, as much as it's possible to "chill" in a hot room) while Diane shared her “secrets” and gave feedback and corrections to people who wanted her to evaluate their postures individually. This really made the teaching come to life. It's so cool to be able to see someone's form improve right in front of your eyes! I had brought a notebook so I launched into full-on school nerd mode and was scribbling away the whole time. At the end of talking about each posture, we would all get up together and do at least 1 set of that posture so we could try applying what we had just learned right then and there.
What I learned was… a ton! Way too much to reiterate here! Plus, all the notes I took relate to my own practice anyway. They range from little bad habits that I need to ditch to a few big adjustments that have entirely changed certain postures for me. I also wrote down some verbatim Diane quotes because she has a great sense of humor and isn't afraid to tell it like it is! Here is one of my favorite little gems she told all of us about Awkward Pose (Utkatasana):
Did I mention Diane likes to curse? Yep, the lady has got her F-bombs and she’s not afraid to drop them (when necessary, for emphasis). Personally, I fucking respect that.
In all seriousness though, this was an amazing day spent with an amazing group of people. And I actually got so much more out of it than just cool tips to help me with my practice. I will never forget the intoxicating hum of 60 people all doing Deep Breathing (Pranayama) in unison. I will never forget the woman in the back row wearing the bandanna and the brown tank top who absolutely LIT UP and exclaimed, “I can do it!” as Diane coached her through the full expression of Toe Stand (Padangustasana) for the first time. I will never forget the claps and the “Oohs!” and “Ahhs!” of all of us yogis who were genuinely moved as we witnessed people reach new personal bests. I will never forget the good times shared over post-clinic margaritas and guacamole with some of my BYN friends, Chris & Christine. And I will never forget the kindness and generosity showed to me by Jenn which allowed me to be a part of all this.
For my non-yogi friends reading who don’t know what a posture clinic is, I will explain. Basically, it’s when a VERY senior Bikram teacher leads a group (usually a mix of students and other teachers) through the series of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises at a much slower pace- 6 hours, versus 90 minutes for a regular class. It is conducted in a hot room, but the heat is not cranked as high as usual since most of the time you're just listening while the seminar leader answers questions and discusses every posture in detail.
A posture clinic is an appropriate forum to get individual help. It's perfectly okay to ask questions about your own specific challenges, or you can just ask the leader to observe you doing a posture so you can get some personalized feedback. Plus, the teachers authorized to lead these seminars are actually allowed to touch students when they’re giving corrections. Overall, at posture clinic you learn a lot of neat tips – “secrets” as Diane calls them – about every posture in the series, and you also get tailored-for-you, hands-on help with the trouble spots in your practice. What you learn won’t necessarily make the postures any easier, but it will help you achieve better form. And with Bikram yoga, form is key since the emphasis is all on trying the right way.
It is important to note that the format of a regular Bikram class never allows for this level of depth and personal attention. Due to the specific pacing of the Bikram dialogue there’s just not enough time. And per Bikram himself, regular teachers are supposed to refrain from touching students when giving corrections. Therefore, a posture clinic is a very useful tool for anyone who wants to take his or her practice to the next level.
My day at posture clinic started fairly early (for a Saturday, for me). I was up and on the road before 8:30, as I had to travel out to Bikram Yoga Auburn where it was being held. The sun was shining and the hour in the car flew by (belting out Lada Gaga really helps pass the time). When I got there I was a little nervous since I’ve never practiced anywhere but at Bikram Yoga Northampton. I knew some other people from BYN who would be coming, but they hadn’t arrived yet so I was on my own for the moment. I immediately liked the vibe of the Auburn studio though. It was bustling with eager yogis and it felt bright and homey. The lobby was being staged for a Shakti trunk sale, and in the hot room another class was just finishing up. There was a good energy and I could sense right away it was going to be a fun day.
On the agenda was a regular class taught by Diane from 10-11:30, then posture clinic from 12-6. Taking the regular class first was optional, but I knew it would be a good way to get warmed up. Plus, I had to get a regular class in to count for the challenge anyway (I’m a purist). Soon my friends from BYN got there and it was time to head into the hot room and claim our spots. It ended up that all 5 of us were right beside each other in the front row- I was next to the podium! There were about 60 attendees in all, and we were PACKED in there like sardines! At least, it seemed that way to me; I’m used to having a couple of feet on either side of me when I practice. However, for this event there were strict instructions upon check-in: Mats 6 inches apart! I thought I was going to hate it being so crowded, but it was actually a really cool experience. The group energy from that many people breathing and moving together was awesome! I thought my practice was pretty strong and focused. I tried really hard to maintain good form because I wanted to represent for BYN and be a shining example of the outstanding level of teaching there. :)
After class there was a 30 minute break. Everyone put on fresh practice clothes, refilled their water bottles and munched down snacks. Then, all 60 of us piled back into the hot room and the posture clinic began. Everyone chilled on their mats (well, as much as it's possible to "chill" in a hot room) while Diane shared her “secrets” and gave feedback and corrections to people who wanted her to evaluate their postures individually. This really made the teaching come to life. It's so cool to be able to see someone's form improve right in front of your eyes! I had brought a notebook so I launched into full-on school nerd mode and was scribbling away the whole time. At the end of talking about each posture, we would all get up together and do at least 1 set of that posture so we could try applying what we had just learned right then and there.
What I learned was… a ton! Way too much to reiterate here! Plus, all the notes I took relate to my own practice anyway. They range from little bad habits that I need to ditch to a few big adjustments that have entirely changed certain postures for me. I also wrote down some verbatim Diane quotes because she has a great sense of humor and isn't afraid to tell it like it is! Here is one of my favorite little gems she told all of us about Awkward Pose (Utkatasana):
“If you are tucking [your glutes] on this posture I can guarantee you will need knee surgery someday because YOU ARE FUCKING IT UP!”
Did I mention Diane likes to curse? Yep, the lady has got her F-bombs and she’s not afraid to drop them (when necessary, for emphasis). Personally, I fucking respect that.
In all seriousness though, this was an amazing day spent with an amazing group of people. And I actually got so much more out of it than just cool tips to help me with my practice. I will never forget the intoxicating hum of 60 people all doing Deep Breathing (Pranayama) in unison. I will never forget the woman in the back row wearing the bandanna and the brown tank top who absolutely LIT UP and exclaimed, “I can do it!” as Diane coached her through the full expression of Toe Stand (Padangustasana) for the first time. I will never forget the claps and the “Oohs!” and “Ahhs!” of all of us yogis who were genuinely moved as we witnessed people reach new personal bests. I will never forget the good times shared over post-clinic margaritas and guacamole with some of my BYN friends, Chris & Christine. And I will never forget the kindness and generosity showed to me by Jenn which allowed me to be a part of all this.
My fist posture clinic was an awesome experience I will always remember, and it certainly won't be my last! It's changed up my practice for the better, and it's strengthened the connection I have to this yoga and to all those who believe in it and practice it. I would highly encourage anybody who has the opportunity to take part in one to do so!
2.23.2010
Toto, I don't think we're blogging in Kansas anymore.
Fear not my lovely 10 followers; I have not abandoned you or this blog. I’ve just been feeling kind of mentally exhausted lately by everything pertaining to the challenge (par for the course during this leg). I feel a little guilty since I posted a bunch of back entries from my journal right off the bat to get everyone up to speed, and then suddenly I found myself struggling to find my voice on here and start blogging in real time.
I’m still getting to class everyday – and still enjoying my practice – but lately it’s everything else that seems to be weighing on me. I JUST did laundry- how did I go through all my yoga towels already?!?! Ugh, I can’t take packing my yoga bag AGAIN! I’m sick of drinking WATER- I really just want a tall, non-fat, no whip, White Mocha from Starbucks! It’s like I still want to practice with all my heart, but I wish somehow everything else I need to do could take care of itself. I would like to be magically transported by bubble each day to the studio in a perfect state of hydration with clean yoga clothes, towels and mat in hand. And then after class I would like to click my sweaty heels together 3 times and end up back on my couch, showered, rehydrated and ready to blog. (Gosh, it was about time I worked in a Wizard of Oz reference! Favorite. Movie. Ever.)
Like The Wizard though, I’m just a real person behind the curtain. I obviously don’t possess the supernatural powers necessary to make all of that stuff happen on it’s own. So when something had to give these past couple of weeks, it was unfortunately this blog. I did sit down to try and write a few times, but nothing worthy of posting was really coming together.
On the other hand, although I pulled back on writing my own blog, I'm not feeling that I've become withdrawn at all from this experience as a whole. I’ve still been avidly following my other favorite Bikram yoga blogs, and I've been having a lot of great discussions with my teachers and other yogis at my studio about our practices. Also, a few of my best friends have even tried Bikram over these past couple of weeks, and I know at least one of them is already totally addicted and loving it! (How many classes your first week, Nina? Four? Five?!) Her frequent YRQs (yoga related questions) and the resulting talks have been a great source of joy for me. Collectively, my yogi friends, teachers and fellow bloggers have been like my Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion, and I’m so grateful for your support and accompaniment on this journey!
This past weekend Bikram's own Good Witch of the North even descended upon me in the form of senior Bikram teacher Diane Ducharme. I took a seminar with her and it was such an AMAZING day! Her passion for this yoga is invigorating and it has certainly compelled me to get back in the blogging spirit.
New posts coiming soon. I'm still with you my pretties, and this little blog too! :)
I’m still getting to class everyday – and still enjoying my practice – but lately it’s everything else that seems to be weighing on me. I JUST did laundry- how did I go through all my yoga towels already?!?! Ugh, I can’t take packing my yoga bag AGAIN! I’m sick of drinking WATER- I really just want a tall, non-fat, no whip, White Mocha from Starbucks! It’s like I still want to practice with all my heart, but I wish somehow everything else I need to do could take care of itself. I would like to be magically transported by bubble each day to the studio in a perfect state of hydration with clean yoga clothes, towels and mat in hand. And then after class I would like to click my sweaty heels together 3 times and end up back on my couch, showered, rehydrated and ready to blog. (Gosh, it was about time I worked in a Wizard of Oz reference! Favorite. Movie. Ever.)
Like The Wizard though, I’m just a real person behind the curtain. I obviously don’t possess the supernatural powers necessary to make all of that stuff happen on it’s own. So when something had to give these past couple of weeks, it was unfortunately this blog. I did sit down to try and write a few times, but nothing worthy of posting was really coming together.
On the other hand, although I pulled back on writing my own blog, I'm not feeling that I've become withdrawn at all from this experience as a whole. I’ve still been avidly following my other favorite Bikram yoga blogs, and I've been having a lot of great discussions with my teachers and other yogis at my studio about our practices. Also, a few of my best friends have even tried Bikram over these past couple of weeks, and I know at least one of them is already totally addicted and loving it! (How many classes your first week, Nina? Four? Five?!) Her frequent YRQs (yoga related questions) and the resulting talks have been a great source of joy for me. Collectively, my yogi friends, teachers and fellow bloggers have been like my Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion, and I’m so grateful for your support and accompaniment on this journey!
This past weekend Bikram's own Good Witch of the North even descended upon me in the form of senior Bikram teacher Diane Ducharme. I took a seminar with her and it was such an AMAZING day! Her passion for this yoga is invigorating and it has certainly compelled me to get back in the blogging spirit.
New posts coiming soon. I'm still with you my pretties, and this little blog too! :)
2.12.2010
Journal entry from day 40. Original date: 2.9.10.
So day 40 was a little bittersweet. The sweet part was that I had an awesome class in terms of seeing some progress in a few postures. I fully executed Standing Head-to-Knee (Dandayamana Janushirasana) and held it until it was time to come out (when kicking the right leg), I touched my head to the floor for the first time in Standing Separate Leg Stretching (Dandayamana Bibhaktapada Paschimottanasana), and during the floor series on both sides of Head-to-Knee (Janushirasana) I was able to lock my knee and get my heel off the floor. Also, Jenn was teaching and all my favorite studio buddies were practicing tonight. To me there was a great energy in the room.
But now the bitter part: Since about Sunday night my shoulders and upper back have been bothering me. I have some general soreness and even a little pain when I move certain ways. I don't think this is the result of something specific I did; I tend to agree with my teacher Audrey who said, "Doing this much yoga just tears your body apart to make room for healing." Well, this afternoon at work I took an OTC pain reliever to soothe my torn up body. It masked the soreness/pain alright... so much so that I think it was the only reason I was able to push myself tonight. That was not my intention when I took it, but I still feel like I cheated or something. Oops.
Anyway, I won't make that mistake again. Because I know I'm going to pay for it tomorrow. I can already feel the rebound soreness setting in. I just hope I didn't REALLY injure myself. I'm going to take it easy until I start to feel good in class again without the use of Motrin and the like. I really like pushing myself though, so that kind of bums me out. But I know it's the smart thing to do. Take the good with the bad and live and learn, I guess.
But now the bitter part: Since about Sunday night my shoulders and upper back have been bothering me. I have some general soreness and even a little pain when I move certain ways. I don't think this is the result of something specific I did; I tend to agree with my teacher Audrey who said, "Doing this much yoga just tears your body apart to make room for healing." Well, this afternoon at work I took an OTC pain reliever to soothe my torn up body. It masked the soreness/pain alright... so much so that I think it was the only reason I was able to push myself tonight. That was not my intention when I took it, but I still feel like I cheated or something. Oops.
Anyway, I won't make that mistake again. Because I know I'm going to pay for it tomorrow. I can already feel the rebound soreness setting in. I just hope I didn't REALLY injure myself. I'm going to take it easy until I start to feel good in class again without the use of Motrin and the like. I really like pushing myself though, so that kind of bums me out. But I know it's the smart thing to do. Take the good with the bad and live and learn, I guess.
Journal entry from day 33. Original date: 2.2.10.
I graduated to the final step of Standing Head-to-Knee (Dandayamana Janushirasana) tonight! Woo hoo! Jenn was teaching and during second set she told me I was ready to try touching my forehead on my knee. I've had a sneaking suspicion I might be ready, but I guess I just needed someone to tell me to go for it. Of course as soon as I looked down I fell right out, lol. But it was still awesome! It's the little things I tell ya! :)
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