It's been two months since I've written and 6 months since I started. The last I wrote I had planned on a thirty-day challenge. While I would still love to do one, this was not the time. I have been out looking for a second job (much harder than I would have guessed) and working on the summer show. This is not to say that I haven't been going to yoga or living my clean and happy lifestyle. I just haven't been going as much as I would like. I have also learned that the teacher in the morning has a real impact on how well I do in class. In the morning, the teacher needs to have great energy in his or her voice. By nature, I am not energetic at 6 am. I am depending on inspiration to get me there. So, needless to say, I have not been going in the morning like I used to. Now, to get to the point of why I am writing...
Six months ago I reported that I had some bad test results that led to my lifestyle changes. My liver was fatty. One line of that test result was a 60 and the other was a 34. Both numbers were significantly out of normal limits and way too high. I knew then that there were two main causes of a fatty liver, obesity and alcohol consumption. While I could not fix obesity over night, I could control my alcohol consumption. This was not really a choice to me. If my abnormal test results were in my control to change - they needed to be changed. This was too much for some friends to handle while other people were overly supportive. In life, God gives you the tools to get through things. It is your job to recognize them and embrace the positive things and let go the negative things.
With that being said, my choices have yielded results even I could not have expected. I was sure that when I went to the doctor yesterday my numbers would have improved. Instead of just improving - they completely went back to normal levels. Both of the numbers that read 60 & 34 are now a 14! So with focus and determination, I have changed my health.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Amber - New Year's in July
I will admit I have been bad about writing the past few weeks. I haven't even been that great about going to yoga. I still have been going, but not with the same drive I started. I have hit that "slump." On the plus side, I have just made it to the four month mark and I'm only 2 months away from having everything retested to see my progress.
I had this amazing energy when I had sodas cut out, I was going to yoga nearly every day, and I was drinking tons of water. Then Easter came and Lent was over, so I celebrated with a 2-liter. Just like that the Diet Coke addiction was back. I have also found a new appreciation for Chocolate. Ask anyone that knows me and they will tell you that I don't eat chocolate. Now I crave it. So, I quit smoking because I wanted to. I quit drinking because I had to. Now I need to quit the sodas because it's the right thing to do.
Most of us struggle with giving up something that is a regular part of our life for even just the 40 days of Lent. I certainly have been known to cheat or not make it. It's only 40 days. Most of us try and give up something like candy. I don't know many people that eat candy more than once or twice a week - so that's really like giving up something no more than eight days. In Bikram yoga there are challenges. They recommend when you start yoga that you go for 30 days straight to really see the body changes and feel the total effects. Every once in awhile, they encourage regular practitioners to do a 30 or 60 day challenge. It's similar to Lent. It is a time that is meant to struggle for a period to be rewarded at the end. It is a sacrifice to give up that much time and energy to something. It is hard to remember why you are doing it and stay committed. The beauty is at the end it becomes a habit and the reward is your health. While you may not continue to go every single day, your practice is stronger. The similar thing happens when you truly sacrifice something in Lent. Every day the temptation reminds you why you are doing this and in turn your faith becomes stronger.
I am going to begin a 30 day challenge starting July 5th. This is the day after I return from vacation. It is the perfect way to start the second half of 2008 and the first month of my 30th year. It will be my New Year's Resolution.
I had this amazing energy when I had sodas cut out, I was going to yoga nearly every day, and I was drinking tons of water. Then Easter came and Lent was over, so I celebrated with a 2-liter. Just like that the Diet Coke addiction was back. I have also found a new appreciation for Chocolate. Ask anyone that knows me and they will tell you that I don't eat chocolate. Now I crave it. So, I quit smoking because I wanted to. I quit drinking because I had to. Now I need to quit the sodas because it's the right thing to do.
Most of us struggle with giving up something that is a regular part of our life for even just the 40 days of Lent. I certainly have been known to cheat or not make it. It's only 40 days. Most of us try and give up something like candy. I don't know many people that eat candy more than once or twice a week - so that's really like giving up something no more than eight days. In Bikram yoga there are challenges. They recommend when you start yoga that you go for 30 days straight to really see the body changes and feel the total effects. Every once in awhile, they encourage regular practitioners to do a 30 or 60 day challenge. It's similar to Lent. It is a time that is meant to struggle for a period to be rewarded at the end. It is a sacrifice to give up that much time and energy to something. It is hard to remember why you are doing it and stay committed. The beauty is at the end it becomes a habit and the reward is your health. While you may not continue to go every single day, your practice is stronger. The similar thing happens when you truly sacrifice something in Lent. Every day the temptation reminds you why you are doing this and in turn your faith becomes stronger.
I am going to begin a 30 day challenge starting July 5th. This is the day after I return from vacation. It is the perfect way to start the second half of 2008 and the first month of my 30th year. It will be my New Year's Resolution.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Amber - To Pee or Not to Pee - PART 2
Yesterday was my 3 month anniversary. As I wrote about yesterday, it is important to challenge yourself and try something new. So, I had to pee... again. I thought I was doing well. I went at 2:30 pm. I went again at 5:00 pm. I'm in the 6 pm class, and I make it through the standing series. We lay down and all of a sudden it hits again. I think that I can make it like I did before. We roll over. I pretty much did nothing because it was just pressure. Finally I decide I can't take it any more and stand up to leave. I have decided that Reggie must read this blog because he instantly said to me... "Are you leaving MY class?" It's like he knew that it really bothered me to leave and wanted to just challenge me one more time to make sure I was making the right decision. I left. I came back in a moment later. I only missed one asana, but I felt like I was walking into the class for the first time at the half-tortoise. I was so disoriented. I can now advise firmly against leaving... even if you have to pee.
On another note, yesterday was great. Previously, I didn't appreciate Reggie's teaching style. I realized that I didn't appreciate him because he doesn't let me be lazy. He guided me through the triangle pose so I went deeper and stronger. When I got out of it, I had a sense of real accomplishment. It is amazing how our bodies work. Just when I think I have done all I can do, I went further. I did more. Sometimes we need someone to encourage us to do what we are capable of. At first you may get angry... but at the end you realize how great they really are.
Just as a small example, I will never forget the day my parents wanted me to go to Lurray Caverns with them. I was 15 or 16 years old. I had other plans in mind that day. I believe I had a boyfriend or someone else that I wanted to spend my day with. So I through a temper tantrum just like any other 15 year old girl would do. I crossed my arms and pouted that day. I was absolutely not interested in anything. I can stand here as a nearly 30 year old and tell you that I saw some of the most beautiful things that day. In my stubborn way I have never thanked my parents.
Just remember that people don't push you to do something because they want to be mean. They do it because they see something inside you that tells them you deserve more and can do more. My parents knew that I would appreciate what I saw that day. Reggie knows that I can do more in my practice than my mind thinks it can. In my stubborn way... this is my thanks.
On another note, yesterday was great. Previously, I didn't appreciate Reggie's teaching style. I realized that I didn't appreciate him because he doesn't let me be lazy. He guided me through the triangle pose so I went deeper and stronger. When I got out of it, I had a sense of real accomplishment. It is amazing how our bodies work. Just when I think I have done all I can do, I went further. I did more. Sometimes we need someone to encourage us to do what we are capable of. At first you may get angry... but at the end you realize how great they really are.
Just as a small example, I will never forget the day my parents wanted me to go to Lurray Caverns with them. I was 15 or 16 years old. I had other plans in mind that day. I believe I had a boyfriend or someone else that I wanted to spend my day with. So I through a temper tantrum just like any other 15 year old girl would do. I crossed my arms and pouted that day. I was absolutely not interested in anything. I can stand here as a nearly 30 year old and tell you that I saw some of the most beautiful things that day. In my stubborn way I have never thanked my parents.
Just remember that people don't push you to do something because they want to be mean. They do it because they see something inside you that tells them you deserve more and can do more. My parents knew that I would appreciate what I saw that day. Reggie knows that I can do more in my practice than my mind thinks it can. In my stubborn way... this is my thanks.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Amber - Bikram, One day at a time, 90 days later
I find it hard to believe that 3 months ago today my life changes started to begin. In some ways three months seems like a long time, but three months in nearly 30 years of life, is really just a small percentage of time. It's amazing to me how small decisions in life have a domino affect in just about everything you do. For me, it's changed friendships - some stronger, some now weaker. It's changed my level of appreciation for things. It's helped my patience, although some days I have to question that still.
I was folding laundry yesterday when I heard Joel Osteen come on TV. For those of you who don't know who he is, Joel is a Evangelist. While I do have faith, I am normally against this style of preaching. However, yesterday morning his message was one that I was able to connect with more than ever. He talked about God having a huge plan for us, but often we stick to a narrow path. We become creatures of habit. We only socialize with those of similar interests. We pre-judge opportunities to do something. We are quick to say, "I won't like that," before ever trying. He talked about small things like that path that he runs every day is the same. One day, he decided to turn the other way. It was an eye-opening experience, literally. He talked about getting out of the comfort zone and trying new things. He told story after story personifying his message.
Three months ago today, I went out of my comfort zone and so many things are changing. For me, it was Bikram yoga, no drinking, and no smoking. It was changing my lifestyle. Making my moments with people true memories and conversations. It's about getting beyond the surface and getting to know myself in the process. I believe that things happen in our lives for a reason. People enter and exit. Opportunities come and go. It is truly about the old Latin saying "Carpe Diem." I don't know what is in store tomorrow, but I do know that my decisions today will impact tomorrow. I am thankful I have let go of my fears of change because the world it has opened for me is amazing.
I would imagine that most people that walk into Bikram yoga for the first time, don't realize the impact it will make on them if they let it. I had no idea the first time I went in there that it would affect me the way it has. I had no idea when I signed up for that first month that it was going to become a lifestyle. I went in to work out and hopefully drop some weight. I read the testimonials on Bikramyoga.com. So one day at a time, Bikram yoga has changed my life.
Joel Osteen ended his sermon challenging everyone to try something new, to go a different way, to get uncomfortable. What will you do?
I was folding laundry yesterday when I heard Joel Osteen come on TV. For those of you who don't know who he is, Joel is a Evangelist. While I do have faith, I am normally against this style of preaching. However, yesterday morning his message was one that I was able to connect with more than ever. He talked about God having a huge plan for us, but often we stick to a narrow path. We become creatures of habit. We only socialize with those of similar interests. We pre-judge opportunities to do something. We are quick to say, "I won't like that," before ever trying. He talked about small things like that path that he runs every day is the same. One day, he decided to turn the other way. It was an eye-opening experience, literally. He talked about getting out of the comfort zone and trying new things. He told story after story personifying his message.
Three months ago today, I went out of my comfort zone and so many things are changing. For me, it was Bikram yoga, no drinking, and no smoking. It was changing my lifestyle. Making my moments with people true memories and conversations. It's about getting beyond the surface and getting to know myself in the process. I believe that things happen in our lives for a reason. People enter and exit. Opportunities come and go. It is truly about the old Latin saying "Carpe Diem." I don't know what is in store tomorrow, but I do know that my decisions today will impact tomorrow. I am thankful I have let go of my fears of change because the world it has opened for me is amazing.
I would imagine that most people that walk into Bikram yoga for the first time, don't realize the impact it will make on them if they let it. I had no idea the first time I went in there that it would affect me the way it has. I had no idea when I signed up for that first month that it was going to become a lifestyle. I went in to work out and hopefully drop some weight. I read the testimonials on Bikramyoga.com. So one day at a time, Bikram yoga has changed my life.
Joel Osteen ended his sermon challenging everyone to try something new, to go a different way, to get uncomfortable. What will you do?
Friday, May 16, 2008
Amber - To Pee or Not to Pee, that is the question
As you may guess from the title, I ran into a small problem yesterday. Traffic is always a pleasure in Northern Virginia. Rt. 28 was backed up as normal. Only yesterday I left about 5 minutes late to make the 6 pm class. To make up for the back up, I decided to try some back roads. Those of you that know me, know that I am queen of the back road. Well, I hit every light on my back roads. I got to class 5 minutes late. I changed and got into class just as they were starting the half-moon. I jumped right in. Then it dawned on me at the beginning of this 90 minute class... I have not used the restroom since 7 am. Then those thoughts began to consume me. I was being haunted by thoughts of rivers and waterfalls. I could see Ashley's message in her blog dancing in front of me saying "Whatever you do - don't leave the room." So I made it through the standing series. The standing separate leg, head to knee pose was a bit of a challenge. Actually anything that you have to suck in your stomach was a challenge. Oh that was every pose, in case you were wondering... On to the floor series... the first asana on the floor is where you lay on your back and bring up one knee to compress the ascending colon. Then you bring up the next knee for the descending colon. Finally you bring up both knees so you're like a ball to massage the transverse colon. You can call it colon all you want - but to a full bladder - it was like a water balloon about to pop! do not leave the room... do not leave the room... Next we roll over on to our stomachs - or protruding bladder - whichever you would like to call it. This is the spine strengthening series. Lift one leg, lift the other legs, lift both legs, lift your arms and legs so you are just on your belly, grab both your feet and roll forward... waterfall.... river... do not leave the room... Now I am within 15 minutes of class ending. I can't possibly leave the room now. So I just took it easy the last 15 minutes of class. I got through the final breathing exercise and I grabbed my things and darted out of the class.
I have one moral for this post - ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS, pee before class.
I have one moral for this post - ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS, pee before class.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Amber - Bikram is my Summer
It's funny now when I sit down and write, I almost have to re-read everything I've written just to make sure I don't retell the same stories. By re-reading what I write, I am just confirming just how far I've come. I've been in this slump. I think you, the reader, have probably felt that. It has been emotional and physical. It is in this moment I'm so thankful I started documenting this journey so close to the beginning. I have been able to find inspiration within myself to continue doing what I had set out to do.
Change can be something people consciously do, or it can be something that progressively happens without intent. It is like the seasons. We know that here in northern Virginia we will have all four seasons. It is a slow progressive change. I am relating my state to Spring. Some days are like summer, but others are like Winter. Some days are full of sunshine, while others are cold and rainy. I think we need these set backs to continue to move forward. Like anything, it is all how you deal with what is presented. I'm not sure if I have been handling my changes in the best way. Luckily I have good friends that are patient with this progression and they understand that this isn't easy for me either.
I've noticed that I have had more trouble getting up for the morning classes. I wonder if it partially has something to do with the inconsistency of my schedule. Ideally I would be able to take a 5:30/6 am class every day. Today was an amazing. I woke up right on time. Took the dogs for my normal walk. I had laid out everything last night. So I changed and realized I was super early. I watched about 15 minutes of Cops before I left to go to class. I arrived and got set up. It was nice to be in a quiet room. (I had gone to another studio over the weekend, and people were talking before and right after the class. VERY DISTRACTING!) When class began, I noticed I was more relaxed than normal. I started in the mindset to have a very strong practice. I held the standing bow the entire time the first set. I've done that before, but not consistently. During the floor series, my full locust pose I felt that I really went for it. I gave 100% right up until the end of class. It was very rewarding to know that in that class, I did the best I could for today. I can only hope that tomorrow I will at least meet or exceed today. I remember just a few months ago walking into my first class. I was only able to start about 50% of the postures. Now I am doing them!
As we approach my favorite season of the year, I will continue to work my way out of the slump I'm in. I ask you to challenge me. Remind me of how good I feel when I go. On those bad days, remind me that yoga, NOT Ben & Jerry's is the answer. Soon enough, we'll all be dancing in the sun!
Change can be something people consciously do, or it can be something that progressively happens without intent. It is like the seasons. We know that here in northern Virginia we will have all four seasons. It is a slow progressive change. I am relating my state to Spring. Some days are like summer, but others are like Winter. Some days are full of sunshine, while others are cold and rainy. I think we need these set backs to continue to move forward. Like anything, it is all how you deal with what is presented. I'm not sure if I have been handling my changes in the best way. Luckily I have good friends that are patient with this progression and they understand that this isn't easy for me either.
I've noticed that I have had more trouble getting up for the morning classes. I wonder if it partially has something to do with the inconsistency of my schedule. Ideally I would be able to take a 5:30/6 am class every day. Today was an amazing. I woke up right on time. Took the dogs for my normal walk. I had laid out everything last night. So I changed and realized I was super early. I watched about 15 minutes of Cops before I left to go to class. I arrived and got set up. It was nice to be in a quiet room. (I had gone to another studio over the weekend, and people were talking before and right after the class. VERY DISTRACTING!) When class began, I noticed I was more relaxed than normal. I started in the mindset to have a very strong practice. I held the standing bow the entire time the first set. I've done that before, but not consistently. During the floor series, my full locust pose I felt that I really went for it. I gave 100% right up until the end of class. It was very rewarding to know that in that class, I did the best I could for today. I can only hope that tomorrow I will at least meet or exceed today. I remember just a few months ago walking into my first class. I was only able to start about 50% of the postures. Now I am doing them!
As we approach my favorite season of the year, I will continue to work my way out of the slump I'm in. I ask you to challenge me. Remind me of how good I feel when I go. On those bad days, remind me that yoga, NOT Ben & Jerry's is the answer. Soon enough, we'll all be dancing in the sun!
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Amber - Just a little Patience...
I started my combination workout regimen yesterday. I got home from work just before 6. Took the dogs on a short walk. I watched an episode of 90210 - which I realized I had been to the Greek where Kelly celebrated her 21st birthday! It was pretty nice to have an hour to unwind with the dogs and watch my favorite reruns. Then I got changed and walked to the little fitness center in my apartment complex. I worked out on the treadmill for a little over 20 minutes. I even worked my way up to a jog for a few minutes. I went to do the stationary bike, but that is dreadfully boring and I couldn't even people watch. It was too far away from the windows. I can say I don't like this workout as much as Bikram. I don't sweat as much. I enjoy the challenge of having people around me and me feeling like I can't get away with being lazy. I don't feel like I get the same workout on the treadmill.
I do have one major accomplishment to report. The past 3 times I have been to class, I have moved to the next step of camel. If you remember it made me sick to just put my head back. Well, on Saturday I was able to reach back and grab both feet to go into a full back bend. Thinking it was a fluke Saturday, I went again that afternoon. I did it again! So, on to this morning... It happened a 3rd time. It must not be a fluke.
I have continuously improved as time moves on. I can only imagine this never ends. The body is designed to be able to do miraculous things. Over time anything is possible. At the end of the day - I am learning patience.
I do have one major accomplishment to report. The past 3 times I have been to class, I have moved to the next step of camel. If you remember it made me sick to just put my head back. Well, on Saturday I was able to reach back and grab both feet to go into a full back bend. Thinking it was a fluke Saturday, I went again that afternoon. I did it again! So, on to this morning... It happened a 3rd time. It must not be a fluke.
I have continuously improved as time moves on. I can only imagine this never ends. The body is designed to be able to do miraculous things. Over time anything is possible. At the end of the day - I am learning patience.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Amber - The results are in!
Today was the final weigh-in at work. I can say, I'm not very happy with my results. At one point I was up to 21 lbs lost and this morning I was only at 16 lbs lost. With that I have a few ways to look at it. I could throw in the towel and accept nothing works for me. I can keep trying and assume that the fluctuation in weight was actually building muscle. I can change my workout routine to incorporate a variety of things.
I love Bikram. I know that my body is changing. I know that my mind is growing. I have more strength then I remember ever having. I am finding the flexibility I once had as a dancer. I will not change that. I will keep to a 5 day per week Bikram class schedule. I am going to add to that 2-3 days a week of a strict cardio routine. Walking, running, something. I need to shed this fat. It's in my way!
Although I am not happy with my final weigh-in results, I know it is a great accomplishment. I have lost and kept off 1 lb per week. That is good steady weight loss. That is the kind of weight loss that is permanent and shows a change in lifestyle - not the results of a fad diet.
Thank you for continuing to support me and I look for any advice you may have!
I love Bikram. I know that my body is changing. I know that my mind is growing. I have more strength then I remember ever having. I am finding the flexibility I once had as a dancer. I will not change that. I will keep to a 5 day per week Bikram class schedule. I am going to add to that 2-3 days a week of a strict cardio routine. Walking, running, something. I need to shed this fat. It's in my way!
Although I am not happy with my final weigh-in results, I know it is a great accomplishment. I have lost and kept off 1 lb per week. That is good steady weight loss. That is the kind of weight loss that is permanent and shows a change in lifestyle - not the results of a fad diet.
Thank you for continuing to support me and I look for any advice you may have!
Monday, April 28, 2008
Amber - Alone with Bikram
I am not sure how to truly describe how I'm feeling. I guess the feeling is pretty simple. I feel alone. For the first time in my life, I feel the one thing I've been most afraid of my entire life. While I know that the changes I have made in my life will only lead to a better version of me, this has forced me to self-reflect more than I ever have before. It has always been a central focus of mine to feel acceptance. For the first time in my life, I feel a greater resentment towards the things I do than ever before. If I would reflect on my weekend you would see I was never physically alone. I think I spent a total of 3 hours without anyone else all weekend. I just feel so disconnected. I imagine any recovering addict may share in some of these feelings. Although I am not sure that I would classify myself as an alcoholic or anything else, alcohol is a social crutch. Alcohol is an excuse to go out, to socialize, to stay in a bar, to gain confidence, etc...
Just yesterday, Karen and I had a repeat of the wonderful day we had just a few weeks ago. We went to yoga in the morning. Then we had lunch and sat outside to enjoy it. We went shopping - or rather - Karen went shopping and I just suggested that she buy everything she tried on. While we were driving, she said "I kinda miss you drinking." We laughed about how the day probably would have went if I were still drinking. We probably would have still gone to yoga and then ended up at Coastal Flats or Sweetwater sitting outside. We would have started at noon and the next thing we would know we would be drunk at 8 pm still there. We would have met nearly everyone at the bar. It would have been a good time. Then when it came to leaving, we would have gotten into our individual cars and both have driven. The choice I made to quit drinking was for my health - but how much longer could I have kept up that lifestyle without hurting myself or possibly someone else.
Bikram has become my crutch. I wish it were a little more social, but I think that probably comes in time. I think as time goes on I will feel less alone because I will start to meet more people that share my same wants and desires. People gravitate to people like themselves. Mothers spend more time with other mothers. Couples spend more time with other couples. Drinkers spend more time with other drinkers. It is only natural to spend more time with people you share a common bond with. Right now, I am alone.
Just yesterday, Karen and I had a repeat of the wonderful day we had just a few weeks ago. We went to yoga in the morning. Then we had lunch and sat outside to enjoy it. We went shopping - or rather - Karen went shopping and I just suggested that she buy everything she tried on. While we were driving, she said "I kinda miss you drinking." We laughed about how the day probably would have went if I were still drinking. We probably would have still gone to yoga and then ended up at Coastal Flats or Sweetwater sitting outside. We would have started at noon and the next thing we would know we would be drunk at 8 pm still there. We would have met nearly everyone at the bar. It would have been a good time. Then when it came to leaving, we would have gotten into our individual cars and both have driven. The choice I made to quit drinking was for my health - but how much longer could I have kept up that lifestyle without hurting myself or possibly someone else.
Bikram has become my crutch. I wish it were a little more social, but I think that probably comes in time. I think as time goes on I will feel less alone because I will start to meet more people that share my same wants and desires. People gravitate to people like themselves. Mothers spend more time with other mothers. Couples spend more time with other couples. Drinkers spend more time with other drinkers. It is only natural to spend more time with people you share a common bond with. Right now, I am alone.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Amber - Bikram Twice in a Day - is she nuts!
Well, this week has already shaped up much better than last week. I went Sunday and Monday as normal. I decided to try out doing a double on Tuesday. What I mean is, I went at 6 am and 6 pm on Tuesday. On Wednesday I was back in there at 5:30 am. Basically, Monday through Wednesday I went every 12 hours. So here I sit on Thursday and I'm taking the day off! I already have 5 classes in this week, so it's ok. This of course doesn't mean that I won't do anything... I think a nice long walk is in order. After all, it is in the mid-seventies today. It is sunny and it is good for the dogs!
So, there have been some concerns expressed about how healthy it is to do 2 classes in a day. Well, I can't answer that question. It is accepted though in the Bikram community. In fact, during any retreat or teacher training 2 classes are done daily and mandatory. There are many students at my studio that go twice a day a few times a week. With that said, I feel that it is ok to do for me once a week.
As for the way I feel, well that is a completely different story. I have soreness like when I started. I can only assume that some of that will regulate as I become used to increasing my schedule. It is nice that my body is reacting to the change. As for my ability in class, well that will take more than just one week of extra classes to show the difference. It only seems natural that it would expedite my improvement. More practice can only lead to better execution.
To keep it simple - work hard, look for more challenge, and rewards will await.
So, there have been some concerns expressed about how healthy it is to do 2 classes in a day. Well, I can't answer that question. It is accepted though in the Bikram community. In fact, during any retreat or teacher training 2 classes are done daily and mandatory. There are many students at my studio that go twice a day a few times a week. With that said, I feel that it is ok to do for me once a week.
As for the way I feel, well that is a completely different story. I have soreness like when I started. I can only assume that some of that will regulate as I become used to increasing my schedule. It is nice that my body is reacting to the change. As for my ability in class, well that will take more than just one week of extra classes to show the difference. It only seems natural that it would expedite my improvement. More practice can only lead to better execution.
To keep it simple - work hard, look for more challenge, and rewards will await.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Amber - Celebrating 2 months
I never thought when I started this that I would make it 60 days. They say it takes 32 times to create a habit, or something like that. I have to say this is the most positive habit I have created. Quitting smoking of course is difficult. I can't remember the last time I was able to quit for 60 days without cheating even once. I think that is what makes this time different. The fact that I quit drinking helps too. In the past the times I cheated, which eventually led me to start again, had alcohol involved. They do seem to go together quite well. The biggest thing that I never expected to do for 60 days was Bikram.
How in the world can you fit 90 minutes into an already busy schedule? Initially my social life took a back seat. Naturally my social life would take a back seat when quitting the other two things anyway. So, for the first month it was just about getting used to the change. It was all about the "replacement." The second month was about normalizing. Going out on weekends. Trying different things. It is not easy to do anything for 90 minutes a day. No one said a lifestyle change is easy.
A few weeks ago, I started a journal at home. I write in it nightly. It is very simple. I don't write stories. I don't write anything that takes a lot of time. I just write 3 things I am grateful for, 3 things I will accomplish in my life, and 3 things I accomplished today. It remains positive. I will only look back on this journal and remember positive things about each day. Often we dwell on the negative parts, but that only creates a negative mood. I am certainly guilty of that. To that point, if you only focus on the negative aspects of change, you will not achieve your goal. If I focused only on the fact that it is 90 minutes, in a room that is hot as hell, and that when I'm done I look like a drowned rat - I probably wouldn't be sitting here writing this blog 60 days later. Instead I focus on the way it makes me feel, the way it makes me look, the way it makes me think, and the way it has changed my life.
I think often we find reason, or excuses, why we can't do something. This could be as small as logging calls at work (which only take about a minute to do.) It could be as big as losing a few pounds to be out of risk for any number of things. Do a personal survey. Look at your health, your spirituality, your body, your finances, etc. What needs to be changed and how do you get there? I did everything at once, but that is how I had to do it. Even if you do one step to achieving your ultimate goal - you are in the right direction. Once that becomes a habit, you can do another step, etc... This is how you find ways to do something versus excuses to not do anything. Just don't give up and 60 days from now - be sure to celebrate! Even small achievements deserve recognition. The recognition has to start from you. Announce what you have done. Even one congratulations feels great!
How in the world can you fit 90 minutes into an already busy schedule? Initially my social life took a back seat. Naturally my social life would take a back seat when quitting the other two things anyway. So, for the first month it was just about getting used to the change. It was all about the "replacement." The second month was about normalizing. Going out on weekends. Trying different things. It is not easy to do anything for 90 minutes a day. No one said a lifestyle change is easy.
A few weeks ago, I started a journal at home. I write in it nightly. It is very simple. I don't write stories. I don't write anything that takes a lot of time. I just write 3 things I am grateful for, 3 things I will accomplish in my life, and 3 things I accomplished today. It remains positive. I will only look back on this journal and remember positive things about each day. Often we dwell on the negative parts, but that only creates a negative mood. I am certainly guilty of that. To that point, if you only focus on the negative aspects of change, you will not achieve your goal. If I focused only on the fact that it is 90 minutes, in a room that is hot as hell, and that when I'm done I look like a drowned rat - I probably wouldn't be sitting here writing this blog 60 days later. Instead I focus on the way it makes me feel, the way it makes me look, the way it makes me think, and the way it has changed my life.
I think often we find reason, or excuses, why we can't do something. This could be as small as logging calls at work (which only take about a minute to do.) It could be as big as losing a few pounds to be out of risk for any number of things. Do a personal survey. Look at your health, your spirituality, your body, your finances, etc. What needs to be changed and how do you get there? I did everything at once, but that is how I had to do it. Even if you do one step to achieving your ultimate goal - you are in the right direction. Once that becomes a habit, you can do another step, etc... This is how you find ways to do something versus excuses to not do anything. Just don't give up and 60 days from now - be sure to celebrate! Even small achievements deserve recognition. The recognition has to start from you. Announce what you have done. Even one congratulations feels great!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Amber - Back on the Saddle
I'm back! It's hard to force a routine back into place. Consequently, I was awake until about midnight last night. When the alarm went off at 4:15 am, I was far from pleased. I reluctantly got out of bed and walked the dogs as normal. I got changed. I went to the dryer only to discover that my clothes were STILL wet after the third time trying to dry them. (the apartment complex will be fixing that) I found alternative clothing, finished packing my bag, and went on to yoga.
Taking these days off yoga may not have been a bad thing. Maybe taking five days off was not the best idea, but a few days is good. I walked in with a new refreshed outlook and determination. I went deeper into the half-moon. I concentrated harder on each and every move almost like it was new again. I did struggle with maintaining balance, but I'll be back again tomorrow and the day after, and the day after that... improvement will be seen.
For today, I just ask you to remember the families affected in the VT shootings of a year ago today. I will not share any words of wisdom or insight as I still have the most important gift, and that is life.
Taking these days off yoga may not have been a bad thing. Maybe taking five days off was not the best idea, but a few days is good. I walked in with a new refreshed outlook and determination. I went deeper into the half-moon. I concentrated harder on each and every move almost like it was new again. I did struggle with maintaining balance, but I'll be back again tomorrow and the day after, and the day after that... improvement will be seen.
For today, I just ask you to remember the families affected in the VT shootings of a year ago today. I will not share any words of wisdom or insight as I still have the most important gift, and that is life.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Amber - The Reasons for Change
This will have nothing to do with Bikram. I haven't been in 5 days and I feel terrible about it. I could make excuses, but that's just what they are - an excuse.
I find that I have to constantly remind myself WHY I'm making the changes. I know that my friends often forget, too. I did not quit drinking to be anti-social and I don't mind going out and not drinking. I quit drinking because I have a fatty liver. As I explained in an earlier blog, a fatty liver has two main causes, drinking and obesity. Well, I can't fix being obese overnight, but I can abstain from drinking. Now, having a fatty liver will not kill you. A fatty liver is reversible. If you had a fatty liver, why wouldn't you do what you could to fix it? I think it would be irresponsible to care so little for yourself to not change the things you can. A fatty liver can lead to cirrhosis. For those that don't know what that is - it is scar tissue build up in the liver. This CAN NOT be reversed. As it progresses, the only cure is transplant. Getting a transplant is something people wait YEARS for and some never see the day.
I go back to my original point, I have to fix the things I can control. It is far from nice to hear how I am not any fun anymore. Why not go out and do things that aren't sitting in a bar? Bowling, Put-Put, Dinner, Movies, etc... I quit drinking to continue living.
I talked about Kiki, my friend's sister, battling Leukemia. I have posted a link to her blog which you will see just to the right. She is back in the hospital undergoing another round of chemo. This is something that she has, through no fault of her own. Cancer does not discriminate - so please keep her in your prayers.
Sunday, I plan to do a DC tour - meaning walk around and check out the museums and such. When was the last time you went on a field trip? Want to come with me?
The infamous AA prayer as it's now coined is so appropriate for this... I wear it around my neck and have for the past 6 years. It is a reminder of how to approach a day, a week, a month, a moment...
I find that I have to constantly remind myself WHY I'm making the changes. I know that my friends often forget, too. I did not quit drinking to be anti-social and I don't mind going out and not drinking. I quit drinking because I have a fatty liver. As I explained in an earlier blog, a fatty liver has two main causes, drinking and obesity. Well, I can't fix being obese overnight, but I can abstain from drinking. Now, having a fatty liver will not kill you. A fatty liver is reversible. If you had a fatty liver, why wouldn't you do what you could to fix it? I think it would be irresponsible to care so little for yourself to not change the things you can. A fatty liver can lead to cirrhosis. For those that don't know what that is - it is scar tissue build up in the liver. This CAN NOT be reversed. As it progresses, the only cure is transplant. Getting a transplant is something people wait YEARS for and some never see the day.
I go back to my original point, I have to fix the things I can control. It is far from nice to hear how I am not any fun anymore. Why not go out and do things that aren't sitting in a bar? Bowling, Put-Put, Dinner, Movies, etc... I quit drinking to continue living.
I talked about Kiki, my friend's sister, battling Leukemia. I have posted a link to her blog which you will see just to the right. She is back in the hospital undergoing another round of chemo. This is something that she has, through no fault of her own. Cancer does not discriminate - so please keep her in your prayers.
Sunday, I plan to do a DC tour - meaning walk around and check out the museums and such. When was the last time you went on a field trip? Want to come with me?
The infamous AA prayer as it's now coined is so appropriate for this... I wear it around my neck and have for the past 6 years. It is a reminder of how to approach a day, a week, a month, a moment...
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
The courage to change the things I can,
And the wisdom to know the difference
AMEN
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Amber - Bikram will help you to Believe
I'm not sure if I can ever describe what inspires me. I don't think inspiration can be wrapped in a box. It is not something that is the same for everyone. It happens when your heart and mind are ready. Dictionary.com defines inspiration as divine guidance or influence exerted directly on the mind and soul of humankind.
As many of you know, one of my lifelong friend's sister was diagnosed with Leukemia last year. She went through one round of chemo. Paul was a bone marrow match and they were able to do a bone marrow transplant. Everything was looking up. Just a few months later, she relapsed. She went through a second round of chemo. The family has remained strong and supportive. Everyday they are in my thoughts and prayers. The miracle is, today she is cancer free for about three weeks!
While the family was going through this, I felt a bit helpless. You can't really do anything other than offer your prayers. I contacted the local Leukemia Society chapter and started a team in her honor about two months ago. The walk is in October in Reston, VA. I would love for any of you to walk with us. Please click here to join or donate. She is an inspiration...
Inspiration comes in all shapes and sizes. Today started as any normal Saturday would. I woke up, I walked the dogs, and I laid right back down on the couch. I got up an hour later and packed a bag for yoga. Today was a bit different because Karen and I had plans after. Yoga was great as always. There were about five new students in the class. I felt great! After I showered and got changed. I didn't want to offend anyone while I was out and about. (mind you, after yoga - you rarely actually smell. It is a different sweat.)
Karen and I decided on Whole Foods for lunch. I made this glorious salad with lettuce, feta cheese, pineapple, honey dew and cantaloupe, sunflower seeds and a balsamic vinaigrette. As I have mentioned before - I crave fruit when I finish class. Not just any fruit... the juicier the better. We then went to Michaels. We walked around for about 45 minutes or so and bought nothing. Then we went to Ann Taylor Loft. We walked around there for awhile and pretty much bought nothing (except these super cute sunglasses!) Then we were going to go to Starbucks, but I decided I wanted to make a pit stop at the book store. Anyone who knows me would tell you that "Amber doesn't read." Well, something changed that day in February. Amber does read. Every day in fact. So, I bought two things. I really want to read "Beautiful Boy" by David Sheff. Probably my most important purchase was a journal. I have written about doing daily reflections to improve outlook or writing down something you learn for the day. The problem is, I don't do it myself. I believe that looking back on the day and pulling out the good parts and writing about what I am grateful for, I can change my thought. I began reflecting at that point. So, Karen and I went to Starbucks. We sat outside and just talked. We talked about everything. We looked through a cook book she bought and salivated over the food. We talked about going to Rome. We talked about yoga and the changes it has brought about.
I woke up one morning in February and have not been the same since. I have a new outlook on life. I do not dwell on things I can not change and I change the things I can. I have learned that memories are more important than things. I have no problem spending $4.25 on a cup of coffee that turned into a memory of a time I shared with a friend. There was nothing more perfect in the day than that hour.
In the book, "The Secret," the main theme is the power of attraction. I know that when I have the moments like I had today, I can radiate happiness from my core to everyone around me. The day I met Steve, I was on top of the world. He always talked about my love of life. It may have taken a few years to find that love - but I did. My love of life has manifested into more. My love of life starts with having love and hope in my heart. My love of life grows through my friends and family. Kathryn best described me as being in love with love. I am in love with love. When you have days like today - share them. The worst thing that can happen is you may brighten someone else's day. You never realize just who is going to notice. After about an hour in Target, Karen and I were checking out. The cashier turned to us and said, "You seem very happy. I wish you nothing but happiness the rest of your days." It goes back to the power of attraction and how just a smile on your face never goes unnoticed.
If you don't believe me... Everyone has a story of someone they know, that when you first met them were not the most physically attractive, but as time went on you only noticed their best qualities. Chances are, they were happy and they made you feel good being around them. It was their personality that changed your view.
Yoga works on changing you from the inside out. You do this through the same things I preach about weekly, determination, passion, commitment, endurance... etc... As you are able to change your outlook and your thoughts, you become a magnet for happiness. You will become surrounded by happy people. Those who are negative will either be inspired by you or turn away from you. Henry Ford said, "Whether You Believe You Can, Or You Can't, You Are Right" Believe in yourself. Kiki and her family believed in the treatment and it is proving to be right. Believe in your change, whatever you want it to be... and you will be right.
As many of you know, one of my lifelong friend's sister was diagnosed with Leukemia last year. She went through one round of chemo. Paul was a bone marrow match and they were able to do a bone marrow transplant. Everything was looking up. Just a few months later, she relapsed. She went through a second round of chemo. The family has remained strong and supportive. Everyday they are in my thoughts and prayers. The miracle is, today she is cancer free for about three weeks!
While the family was going through this, I felt a bit helpless. You can't really do anything other than offer your prayers. I contacted the local Leukemia Society chapter and started a team in her honor about two months ago. The walk is in October in Reston, VA. I would love for any of you to walk with us. Please click here to join or donate. She is an inspiration...
Inspiration comes in all shapes and sizes. Today started as any normal Saturday would. I woke up, I walked the dogs, and I laid right back down on the couch. I got up an hour later and packed a bag for yoga. Today was a bit different because Karen and I had plans after. Yoga was great as always. There were about five new students in the class. I felt great! After I showered and got changed. I didn't want to offend anyone while I was out and about. (mind you, after yoga - you rarely actually smell. It is a different sweat.)
Karen and I decided on Whole Foods for lunch. I made this glorious salad with lettuce, feta cheese, pineapple, honey dew and cantaloupe, sunflower seeds and a balsamic vinaigrette. As I have mentioned before - I crave fruit when I finish class. Not just any fruit... the juicier the better. We then went to Michaels. We walked around for about 45 minutes or so and bought nothing. Then we went to Ann Taylor Loft. We walked around there for awhile and pretty much bought nothing (except these super cute sunglasses!) Then we were going to go to Starbucks, but I decided I wanted to make a pit stop at the book store. Anyone who knows me would tell you that "Amber doesn't read." Well, something changed that day in February. Amber does read. Every day in fact. So, I bought two things. I really want to read "Beautiful Boy" by David Sheff. Probably my most important purchase was a journal. I have written about doing daily reflections to improve outlook or writing down something you learn for the day. The problem is, I don't do it myself. I believe that looking back on the day and pulling out the good parts and writing about what I am grateful for, I can change my thought. I began reflecting at that point. So, Karen and I went to Starbucks. We sat outside and just talked. We talked about everything. We looked through a cook book she bought and salivated over the food. We talked about going to Rome. We talked about yoga and the changes it has brought about.
I woke up one morning in February and have not been the same since. I have a new outlook on life. I do not dwell on things I can not change and I change the things I can. I have learned that memories are more important than things. I have no problem spending $4.25 on a cup of coffee that turned into a memory of a time I shared with a friend. There was nothing more perfect in the day than that hour.
In the book, "The Secret," the main theme is the power of attraction. I know that when I have the moments like I had today, I can radiate happiness from my core to everyone around me. The day I met Steve, I was on top of the world. He always talked about my love of life. It may have taken a few years to find that love - but I did. My love of life has manifested into more. My love of life starts with having love and hope in my heart. My love of life grows through my friends and family. Kathryn best described me as being in love with love. I am in love with love. When you have days like today - share them. The worst thing that can happen is you may brighten someone else's day. You never realize just who is going to notice. After about an hour in Target, Karen and I were checking out. The cashier turned to us and said, "You seem very happy. I wish you nothing but happiness the rest of your days." It goes back to the power of attraction and how just a smile on your face never goes unnoticed.
If you don't believe me... Everyone has a story of someone they know, that when you first met them were not the most physically attractive, but as time went on you only noticed their best qualities. Chances are, they were happy and they made you feel good being around them. It was their personality that changed your view.
Yoga works on changing you from the inside out. You do this through the same things I preach about weekly, determination, passion, commitment, endurance... etc... As you are able to change your outlook and your thoughts, you become a magnet for happiness. You will become surrounded by happy people. Those who are negative will either be inspired by you or turn away from you. Henry Ford said, "Whether You Believe You Can, Or You Can't, You Are Right" Believe in yourself. Kiki and her family believed in the treatment and it is proving to be right. Believe in your change, whatever you want it to be... and you will be right.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Amber - Bikram is sweet dreams
So it happened... It was bound to happen... When I bend forward, after doing a back bend, I grabbed my heals. Sounds like no big deal, right? Well, I could touch my toes... I could just about "kiss" my knees... I just couldn't get a grip on my heals. I would grab the back of my ankles. It still worked, but it wasn't deep enough.
I discovered how Bikram has helped with other physical activity this week. On Sunday, I walked around DC to see the Cherry Blossoms and other Monuments. We had set out for a 3 mile walk around the Tidal Basin, but we ended up doing that and then going over to the World War II memorial, the Reflecting Pool, and the Lincoln Memorial all before walking back to the metro near the Washington Monument. The walk was gorgeous. Gorgeous or not, this walk normally would have left me sore for several days. I hurt that evening, but the next day I felt great! I went to yoga on Monday night as normal and continued my practice as if I hadn't taken the weekend off.
Tuesday morning I went to yoga. It was an amazing class. I got to work as normal and set out for a normal day. I can't tell you if it would have happened the same before yoga... but I can tell you that we had a small contest yesterday at work. We did a call blitz. I called and contacted the most on my team. I had the best response from potential customers. I contribute the success to yoga because it allows me to be focused and have the endurance to sit through two hours of straight dialing. The rest of the day was just as intense, but I was crossing things off the list - not just working in circles.
I say it over and over again - focus, passion, determination, endurance, commitment. If you approach everything you do with these things, you will be successful. The sixth thing that I did not include in this is the ability to learn and adjust. The last thing you want to do is work on something that hard the wrong way. Constantly listen and adjust. Keep the goal in sight. This can be at work, in love, in friendships, or in your Bikram Yoga class. Give it 110%. That level of energy is different every day - but when you leave, know that you did your best that day.
At the end of every class the instructor passes out lavender smelling cold cloths. Lavender has become my aromatherapy for success. At the end of a day filled with accomplishment, I spray my pillow down with a lavender scented pillow spray. When I lay my head down on it, it reminds me of the feeling I have at the end of class. With that, is pure relaxation and a night of uninterrupted sleep. I wish everyone the same each and every day.
I discovered how Bikram has helped with other physical activity this week. On Sunday, I walked around DC to see the Cherry Blossoms and other Monuments. We had set out for a 3 mile walk around the Tidal Basin, but we ended up doing that and then going over to the World War II memorial, the Reflecting Pool, and the Lincoln Memorial all before walking back to the metro near the Washington Monument. The walk was gorgeous. Gorgeous or not, this walk normally would have left me sore for several days. I hurt that evening, but the next day I felt great! I went to yoga on Monday night as normal and continued my practice as if I hadn't taken the weekend off.
Tuesday morning I went to yoga. It was an amazing class. I got to work as normal and set out for a normal day. I can't tell you if it would have happened the same before yoga... but I can tell you that we had a small contest yesterday at work. We did a call blitz. I called and contacted the most on my team. I had the best response from potential customers. I contribute the success to yoga because it allows me to be focused and have the endurance to sit through two hours of straight dialing. The rest of the day was just as intense, but I was crossing things off the list - not just working in circles.
I say it over and over again - focus, passion, determination, endurance, commitment. If you approach everything you do with these things, you will be successful. The sixth thing that I did not include in this is the ability to learn and adjust. The last thing you want to do is work on something that hard the wrong way. Constantly listen and adjust. Keep the goal in sight. This can be at work, in love, in friendships, or in your Bikram Yoga class. Give it 110%. That level of energy is different every day - but when you leave, know that you did your best that day.
At the end of every class the instructor passes out lavender smelling cold cloths. Lavender has become my aromatherapy for success. At the end of a day filled with accomplishment, I spray my pillow down with a lavender scented pillow spray. When I lay my head down on it, it reminds me of the feeling I have at the end of class. With that, is pure relaxation and a night of uninterrupted sleep. I wish everyone the same each and every day.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Amber - Who knew Bikram and Faith Hill went so well together?
Good morning! This blog is really going to be focused on those that are new to the practice. It is not that I am not new... because I am. Those of you just starting out are going to find that every class you learn and identify something new. You figure out that if you just hold your hand a little differently, you can do it. You learn that if you truly focus in your own eyes it is not about vanity but true meditation and balance. Today I had a new level of awareness. It is something I have heard since the first day I walked into the class. Today was my 29th class. It took nearly 30 classes for the most important and most simple message to sink in. Focus on your breathing.
I got the breathing exercises at the beginning and end quickly. I figured out in the back bend at the beginning that when I breath through it I don't struggle as much in it. I learned what 80/20 breathing meant only last week. I am going to take this blog and explain breathing.
Always, always, always... breath in and out through your nose with a relaxed face throughout your yoga practice with the exception of the breathing exercises that have very specific breathing techniques. This allows for very controlled focused breathing. I am sure there are more reasons, but we'll stick with the most obvious. Having a relaxed face doesn't mean you aren't practicing to your maximum potential. I think the relaxed face turns into a mind game. If you look like it's easy - it will become easy. If you look like your are constipated - you will always feel the difficulty. Think about when you are sick. You look sick, you feel sicker. Now, think back to a time you were sick and you put on makeup, you got dressed up, and instantly you felt better. You are looking at yourself nearly the entire 90 minutes. It is OK to lie to yourself for those 90 minutes and make it look easy! Holding your breath in a posture does your body a huge injustice. You need to maintain the breath to allow for the healing. If you don't breath - you don't oxygenate your blood and you don't gain the benefits. Let me define 80/20 breathing. At the beginning of the asana, take a full breath in. While you are holding and working through the position only use the top 20% of your lung capacity and breath in and out. Try it now - while you are reading this. It is best to practice while you are not in the "heat" of the moment. Empty your lungs. Now breath in for a slow count of 5. Hold it. Now breath out for 1 and breath back in for 1. That is 80/20 breathing. Simple concept - but hard to focus on.
OK - now when I say breath through it, I really mean breath through it. When you get dizzy or nauseous, change your focus. Just focus on breathing in and out. Slowly you'll forget you were dizzy. You won't notice you were nauseous. You will be in your posture. You won't even notice the uncomfortable zone. If you recall, I spoke frequently of not being able to do the Camel pose. The Camel pose is the pose you work the entire 90 minutes to do. It is the deepest back bend and the most beneficial to your spine and overall health. I always felt like I had deep cramps. It's the only way I know how to describe the feeling I had. I always went into it saying this was the time I was going to do it. Every time I failed. Today I said I was going to breath through it. So, I took a lung filling breath in. I used the top 20% of my lung capacity and that is all I focused on. I ended up seeing the back wall. Before I knew it, I heard "change."
After 29 classes, I am still learning the fundamentals of Bikram. I think in a year, I will pick up something that is so basic and so important that just didn't matter to me until then. They say when you get angry to count to ten. When you do that, you are just re-focusing. When you lose balance in a posture, it is often because you lost focus. When you need to re-focus, just breath. Look deep into your own eyes and breath. What you will learn about yourself in the process is only yours to discover. I will make this promise - you will be pleased with what you learn. Focus, Determination, Endurance, Commitment, Passion - But like Faith Hill says... "Just Breath"
I got the breathing exercises at the beginning and end quickly. I figured out in the back bend at the beginning that when I breath through it I don't struggle as much in it. I learned what 80/20 breathing meant only last week. I am going to take this blog and explain breathing.
Always, always, always... breath in and out through your nose with a relaxed face throughout your yoga practice with the exception of the breathing exercises that have very specific breathing techniques. This allows for very controlled focused breathing. I am sure there are more reasons, but we'll stick with the most obvious. Having a relaxed face doesn't mean you aren't practicing to your maximum potential. I think the relaxed face turns into a mind game. If you look like it's easy - it will become easy. If you look like your are constipated - you will always feel the difficulty. Think about when you are sick. You look sick, you feel sicker. Now, think back to a time you were sick and you put on makeup, you got dressed up, and instantly you felt better. You are looking at yourself nearly the entire 90 minutes. It is OK to lie to yourself for those 90 minutes and make it look easy! Holding your breath in a posture does your body a huge injustice. You need to maintain the breath to allow for the healing. If you don't breath - you don't oxygenate your blood and you don't gain the benefits. Let me define 80/20 breathing. At the beginning of the asana, take a full breath in. While you are holding and working through the position only use the top 20% of your lung capacity and breath in and out. Try it now - while you are reading this. It is best to practice while you are not in the "heat" of the moment. Empty your lungs. Now breath in for a slow count of 5. Hold it. Now breath out for 1 and breath back in for 1. That is 80/20 breathing. Simple concept - but hard to focus on.
OK - now when I say breath through it, I really mean breath through it. When you get dizzy or nauseous, change your focus. Just focus on breathing in and out. Slowly you'll forget you were dizzy. You won't notice you were nauseous. You will be in your posture. You won't even notice the uncomfortable zone. If you recall, I spoke frequently of not being able to do the Camel pose. The Camel pose is the pose you work the entire 90 minutes to do. It is the deepest back bend and the most beneficial to your spine and overall health. I always felt like I had deep cramps. It's the only way I know how to describe the feeling I had. I always went into it saying this was the time I was going to do it. Every time I failed. Today I said I was going to breath through it. So, I took a lung filling breath in. I used the top 20% of my lung capacity and that is all I focused on. I ended up seeing the back wall. Before I knew it, I heard "change."
After 29 classes, I am still learning the fundamentals of Bikram. I think in a year, I will pick up something that is so basic and so important that just didn't matter to me until then. They say when you get angry to count to ten. When you do that, you are just re-focusing. When you lose balance in a posture, it is often because you lost focus. When you need to re-focus, just breath. Look deep into your own eyes and breath. What you will learn about yourself in the process is only yours to discover. I will make this promise - you will be pleased with what you learn. Focus, Determination, Endurance, Commitment, Passion - But like Faith Hill says... "Just Breath"
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Amber - Bikram is still a Challenge
Happy Easter to everyone! Since we last talked I have gone to yoga just about every day. I did miss Sunday, but that was to be expected. Last night was a bit hotter than usual. The instructor opened the door many times to try and bring the temperature down - but at the end of class when I was walking out - it read 106 degrees. It was ok to feel hot, because it was hot. I did make it through class without hesitation. I realized at the end of class that I did not wipe my sweat off once. I noticed I have quit doing that. Mind over matter... I got up for class again this morning. I feel like I barely sweat in class. I mean, it wasn't noticeable the amount I was sweating. My clothes were still wet when I was done - it just wasn't pouring into my eyes. I seemed to do really well on the floor exercises today. I think my leg went up to a 45 degree angle. I think I do better in the morning classes because I don't over think what I'm doing. It can be just as simple as lift your leg with a pointed toe. There is a catchy Mind over Matter saying that Reggie uses frequently... Of course right this moment I can't think of it. I will have to share with you later.
The biggest thing I've found difficult is working through the days I don't feel like going. I always feel better when I'm done. I always get into it after the first asana. Lately it is just hard to get myself motivated to drive there. I am still going and I am still seeing progress. My body is definitely changing and I'm still losing weight. In my core, I am lazy. While I'm working to change that, it still haunts me. I will relight that fire and I will have the energy again. In the mean time - I will keep going even if I don't feel like it.
The biggest thing I've found difficult is working through the days I don't feel like going. I always feel better when I'm done. I always get into it after the first asana. Lately it is just hard to get myself motivated to drive there. I am still going and I am still seeing progress. My body is definitely changing and I'm still losing weight. In my core, I am lazy. While I'm working to change that, it still haunts me. I will relight that fire and I will have the energy again. In the mean time - I will keep going even if I don't feel like it.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Amber - Bikram yields results
I haven't been very diligent in writing this week. I have been going to yoga daily. I even went at 5:30 AM on Wednesday which I had taken off. I had a follow up appointment at my endocrinologist Wednesday morning. I have a severe Vit. D deficiency. This yields the same symptoms as depression and fatigue. It would make perfect sense. I'm sure that the deficiency gets worse in the winter months. You get a large portion of your vitamin D from the sun. This could be a contributing factor to SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder or Seasonal Depression). Doctors do not test for this frequently. I was diagnosed with SAD years ago. In turn I was put on heavy doses of anti-depressants because they don't work. Then it was decided that I have ADD. I don't question having ADD - but I am bothered that no one ever dug a little deeper into the SAD diagnosis. Especially when nothing was working. So, I am now on a prescription dose of Vitamin D. He said I should expect to see a drastic change in my energy level. We are retesting in 4 months. I can't wait to see how the test results come back. By then I will have had 5 months of yoga.
Last night I weighed myself... So many of you ask if there's an update on the number - well, I've lost 21 lbs. So, there is good news in all of this. My health problem is related to a vitamin that can be fixed. I've lost weight. I've quit smoking (one month yesterday). I've quit drinking. Will someone tell me why I now have high blood pressure? For the second time my reading was 135/93. I am supposed to periodically check it - like at the grocery store and such. If it is high in 4 months, I will have to go on medication for it. High blood pressure is a side effect of my ADD medication.
I signed up for my second month of yoga this week. Actually, I committed to a year. Achieving goals starts with identifying the goal, creating a map to get there, then committing. I had a goal of losing 30 lbs by my 30th birthday. With 3 months left until I get there, I only have 9 more lbs to go. After my birthday, I will probably make a goal to lose another 30 lbs by Christmas. I will still have 30 more lbs to go after that. I had another goal when I started this class. To be able to do the foundation of each asana by the end of the month. I have achieved that goal as well. Yesterday we were doing the Balancing Separate Leg Stretching, the goal is to eventually touch your forehead to the floor between your toes. I did it yesterday. Once you reach that goal - you bring your legs in closer together and start to work towards it again. (It is the 5th one from the end)
Last night I weighed myself... So many of you ask if there's an update on the number - well, I've lost 21 lbs. So, there is good news in all of this. My health problem is related to a vitamin that can be fixed. I've lost weight. I've quit smoking (one month yesterday). I've quit drinking. Will someone tell me why I now have high blood pressure? For the second time my reading was 135/93. I am supposed to periodically check it - like at the grocery store and such. If it is high in 4 months, I will have to go on medication for it. High blood pressure is a side effect of my ADD medication.
I signed up for my second month of yoga this week. Actually, I committed to a year. Achieving goals starts with identifying the goal, creating a map to get there, then committing. I had a goal of losing 30 lbs by my 30th birthday. With 3 months left until I get there, I only have 9 more lbs to go. After my birthday, I will probably make a goal to lose another 30 lbs by Christmas. I will still have 30 more lbs to go after that. I had another goal when I started this class. To be able to do the foundation of each asana by the end of the month. I have achieved that goal as well. Yesterday we were doing the Balancing Separate Leg Stretching, the goal is to eventually touch your forehead to the floor between your toes. I did it yesterday. Once you reach that goal - you bring your legs in closer together and start to work towards it again. (It is the 5th one from the end)
I can't wait to go back to class today. It is very exciting once you get something new. In yoga there are so many ways to measure health. In 4 months my labs will be a measurement. My weight has already been a measurement. I have still not pulled out a measuring tape to see how many inches I've lost. My flexibility and balance has improved exponentially. With every little step forward I make it builds my self confidence. Everyone around me thinks that I am confident enough - but I am also an actress. Perception is reality. As long as those around me perceive confidence, I must be. Well, I can honestly say - what I feel is catching up to what I project. Happy Easter to everyone! I wish everyone a very safe weekend...
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Amber - Bikram is my journey
Where oh where have I been!?!? I did not make it to yoga on Friday. I got distracted at work at the end of the day. Next thing I knew it was after 5:30. The last class on Fridays is at 6:00 pm. I had no chance of making it there in time for warm-ups. I was there bright and early on Saturday at 8 am. I remember feeling chilly in class that day. I doubt it was any cooler in there than it normally is. The class went well. No major change. I went from there to Shamrockfest in DC. I am normally good about being sober around drunk people. There were a lot of drunk people. That would have to be a blog all by itself. I woke up the next morning planning to go to yoga - but my knees hurt. My knees hurt so bad I could barely walk. I am sure it was from my adventures the day before in DC. I made the decision to not go to yoga. On Monday, I still hurt. I just couldn't bare to miss another day of yoga. I went. The first 20 minutes hurt, but the rest seems to relieve the pressure from my knees. I probably should have gone on Sunday. They say the best time to go, is when you don't think you can. It is when you need it most.
My instructor yesterday was the same one I had today. After taking from certain instructors repeatedly, you learn their style. Some will open the door occasionally to let a quick breeze in. Some will adjust the humidity frequently during the class. I even had a class where the instructor turned the humidity off completely because of the amount of people in the class. In the morning class, the instructors rarely open the door. That class is made up of the truly committed I think. They are the students that thrive in the heat and may actually enjoy it. I would suppose I now fall into this category. I wouldn't say I enjoy the heat, but I have learned to appreciate the benefits. Today's instructor never adjusts the humidity. It is always set at the highest it should be. Sweat is supposed to by nature's way of cooling the body down. That may be why I feel the least hot in her classes. I notice I drink less water during the class when I am in a higher humidity class. I work very hard at following Ashley's advice and not wiping the sweat off. This is still very difficult.
My goal for the end of my first month was to master the foundation of each asana. My first month ends on Thursday. While I have not mastered them all - I am only short on 2. I am very pleased with my progress. I may just get those last 2 by Thursday especially if I go twice tomorrow which I am considering. Tomorrow is a very important day. It is my friend of nearly 25 years 30th birthday. I have known her longer than I've known almost anyone else. So I will begin the day just like any other Wednesday - but in the middle of the day - I will celebrate with her the last big milestone birthday for a long time. For those of you that seek inspiration in what I write - she has been a main source of inspiration for me. She decided early she wanted to be a lawyer, and she went to law school. She met the man she knew she was going to marry - and she is now married. She wanted to buy a house - and she found the perfect one for her and her husband. She wanted a clerkship with a Judge, but the whole time had her sights on a law firm she wanted to be a part of. She spent the year with the Judge, passed the bar, and is now an attorney at the law firm she wanted.
All success begins with a goal. Success is a journey that is ever-changing as the goals are achieved and re-set. She is the most successful person I know. She never stops working towards her goals. Once she reaches them, she starts working on something new. Yoga is that same journey for me. There are a lot of measurements. I can measure my weight, which has changed. I can measure my size, which has changed. Each and every day - I can measure my flexibility, balance, determination, focus... which improves each and every day.
My instructor yesterday was the same one I had today. After taking from certain instructors repeatedly, you learn their style. Some will open the door occasionally to let a quick breeze in. Some will adjust the humidity frequently during the class. I even had a class where the instructor turned the humidity off completely because of the amount of people in the class. In the morning class, the instructors rarely open the door. That class is made up of the truly committed I think. They are the students that thrive in the heat and may actually enjoy it. I would suppose I now fall into this category. I wouldn't say I enjoy the heat, but I have learned to appreciate the benefits. Today's instructor never adjusts the humidity. It is always set at the highest it should be. Sweat is supposed to by nature's way of cooling the body down. That may be why I feel the least hot in her classes. I notice I drink less water during the class when I am in a higher humidity class. I work very hard at following Ashley's advice and not wiping the sweat off. This is still very difficult.
My goal for the end of my first month was to master the foundation of each asana. My first month ends on Thursday. While I have not mastered them all - I am only short on 2. I am very pleased with my progress. I may just get those last 2 by Thursday especially if I go twice tomorrow which I am considering. Tomorrow is a very important day. It is my friend of nearly 25 years 30th birthday. I have known her longer than I've known almost anyone else. So I will begin the day just like any other Wednesday - but in the middle of the day - I will celebrate with her the last big milestone birthday for a long time. For those of you that seek inspiration in what I write - she has been a main source of inspiration for me. She decided early she wanted to be a lawyer, and she went to law school. She met the man she knew she was going to marry - and she is now married. She wanted to buy a house - and she found the perfect one for her and her husband. She wanted a clerkship with a Judge, but the whole time had her sights on a law firm she wanted to be a part of. She spent the year with the Judge, passed the bar, and is now an attorney at the law firm she wanted.
All success begins with a goal. Success is a journey that is ever-changing as the goals are achieved and re-set. She is the most successful person I know. She never stops working towards her goals. Once she reaches them, she starts working on something new. Yoga is that same journey for me. There are a lot of measurements. I can measure my weight, which has changed. I can measure my size, which has changed. Each and every day - I can measure my flexibility, balance, determination, focus... which improves each and every day.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Amber - Rules of Bikram
Rules of Bikram
- Drink double the amount of water you are supposed to the day you take class.
- Don't eat at least 2 hours prior to class and keep your meals light that day
- Try to allow at least 10 minutes prior to class in the room to begin to adjust to the heat at a resting heart rate
- Don't drink half of your bottle of water you have for class on your way to class when you are running late.
- If you are late - still go to class, it's better than not going at all, but you will suffer for your tardiness.
I managed to break ALL 5 rules I listed above yesterday. I only drank one liter of water compared to the 3 I normally drink. I had some carrots and dip around 4 pm yesterday. I showed up to class a few minutes before it started. I drank so much water on my way to class I ended up walking into class late because I had to use the restroom. My heart was already racing when I walked in. They were half way through the first breathing exercise. I struggled breathing in for 6 counts and breathing out for 6 counts. My body didn't seem comfortable with the heat at any point. On the bright side, I never felt sick or dizzy. I was able to get through everything. I just felt everything. I collapsed after the class was over. I decided to shower there to try and get my heart rate down. No luck. I sat in my car for about 10 minutes before I drove away. I got home and sat on the couch for about 30 more minutes before I finally felt normal. I never felt bad - my heart was just racing. I think I was probably still burning quite a few calories when I got home.
Not every class I go to will feel great. I know that. I also know that every class I go to will yield improvement. That's what I'm ultimately after. There is a quote, "To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did." Two months ago, if I didn't feel like doing something, I wouldn't. I have almost been doing Bikram Yoga for one month. There have been many days I didn't feel like going, but I did. The rewards far out weigh the sacrifice. Put it into perspective. The day has 24 hours in it. There is no reason I can't spend 90 minutes of that 24 hours doing something I didn't feel like doing. It isn't that much time. The best part is, I came home to huge rewards. Jodi came over. We watched two of my favorite cooking shows. Then we stood outside and had the most amazing conversation that ended up lasting two hours. I had planned on picking up in the morning before work, but I spent 20 minutes before bed doing it. Every night I go to bed having accomplished something. Always more than I thought I was capable of. Things at home are being completed not just started. Things at work are being completed and not just started. There is a different focus and approach happening and the change I made was to give 110% to something I've never done before. I left my comfort zone and I don't feel the sacrifice any more. The change has become a lifestyle. The lifestyle has yielded a better mental state, better health, better sleep - a better me. The best part is, it's only been a month. Imagine what I'll feel in a year!
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Amber - Bikram, 1555 Calories!
Let's just start by saying that doing yoga after 3 hours of sleep at 5:30 in the morning is like a baby deer trying to walk for the first time. I'll set the scene... I had an unexpected opportunity to see some very quality live music last night that couldn't be passed up. The band Junkfood opened for the Bret Michaels Band. Those of you who know me, are well aware of my deep love for Junkfood... So, when the opportunity presented itself, I had to say yes. We got home at about midnight, which is much better than I had expected. I couldn't fall asleep when I walked in the door, so it was about 1:15 or so before my eyes shut. My alarm went off promptly at 4:15 am. I got a text from Karen shortly after asking if I was up. I said yes, but that was a bold faced lie. I was laying in bed hoping she was going to bail so I could bail. Meanwhile, Karen was hoping I was going to bail so she could go back to sleep too. Instead, we met in Reston at about 5:15 and got started.
As I mentioned before, it was a rough start. It was a rough middle. It had a rough end. The important thing to take from this is at least it had a beginning, middle, and end. It beats the alternative of sleeping and not showing up at all. I still think it is better to go when you are tired and don't feel up to it, than not going at all. I still received most of the benefits the class has to offer - it just wasn't as ego boosting.
I don't have a great lesson today except - do what you are capable of, not just what you feel like doing. You are always capable of more than you give yourself credit for. It is mind over matter. It is the desire for the end result. I want the better me that I know is there... So with 3 hours of sleep - I still kept the goal in sight.
My friend sent me a link for a free calorie/activity tracker. Looks pretty cool. It calculated Bikram Yoga for my weight as burning 1555 calories. That's not a bad way to start a day, huh?
Free Calorie Counter my-calorie-counter.com
As I mentioned before, it was a rough start. It was a rough middle. It had a rough end. The important thing to take from this is at least it had a beginning, middle, and end. It beats the alternative of sleeping and not showing up at all. I still think it is better to go when you are tired and don't feel up to it, than not going at all. I still received most of the benefits the class has to offer - it just wasn't as ego boosting.
I don't have a great lesson today except - do what you are capable of, not just what you feel like doing. You are always capable of more than you give yourself credit for. It is mind over matter. It is the desire for the end result. I want the better me that I know is there... So with 3 hours of sleep - I still kept the goal in sight.
My friend sent me a link for a free calorie/activity tracker. Looks pretty cool. It calculated Bikram Yoga for my weight as burning 1555 calories. That's not a bad way to start a day, huh?
Free Calorie Counter my-calorie-counter.com
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Amber - Prepared for anything!
Good morning and happy day 3 of this week. Yes, it is Tuesday and it is day 3. If you have no idea what I'm talking about, read my last post. Since I last wrote, I have been to 2 classes. I left work yesterday at about 5:20 pm. I thought, I need a traffic less trip. I focused on that, called Benji to wish him a happy birthday, and then I was there. It only took 15 minutes! The power of thought. Normally arriving that early for class, I would have lots of time. Get changed, use the restroom, look at myself in the mirror a few times... I walked in, went to sign in and I was number 31 already there for the class! There were already 30 people and their mats down in the room. It was Monday and there was still 20 minutes before class which would mean another 30 people were bound to show up. So I went into the room with my winter coat on. Going into 105 degrees with a winter coat is far from comfortable. I put my mat down and a towel down to reserve a spot for Karen. Then I got changed.
The class was filled to the brim. It was hot. I was dripping during the first breathing exercise. I am not sure I can explain what was different, but the pace was quick. I held the standing bow the entire length without falling out. I didn't waiver on the balancing stick either. Everything just clicked. Without putting too much thought into what I was doing, I listened to the instructions and just did it. In an earlier class, the instructor was talking about a class he took with Bikram, himself. Bikram said, "For the next 90 minutes you will only do what I tell you. You will not scratch, adjust your clothes, or even take a sip of water unless I say." I felt like that's what I was in. It was great. Before the tree stand, Paul said, "Don't drink, let's just finish this." We did. It felt as if the class was 45 minutes, but it really was the full 90. I was drenched worse than I ever had been before, and it was GREAT!
This morning was a little difficult getting out of bed. I was so cozy. Regardless, I got the blood flowing and stood up. Took the dogs on a walk after I think I woke both of them up. I left at about 5:20 AM and took the back roads. $1 a day for tolls is starting to add up. Paul was the instructor again. How he can maintain the same energy from a 6 pm class to a 6 am class is pretty unbelievable. He warned us of the garlic he ate last night for dinner, but I didn't notice any garlic smell in the room. Debra did very well for it being her second class. I hope she keeps it up because I would love to observe someone else's progression. There are of course more reasons I hope she keeps it up, but that's my selfish reason.
My energy is high today. The smile is in full force. The work emails are already flowing in and they do not bother me. When I can get up and work my way through 26 asanas in 105 degrees, then I can certainly work through 8 hours of email and other people's business problems. My mind is set for success. My body feels great. My pants are a bit loose. My makeup looks great! I am ready.
The class was filled to the brim. It was hot. I was dripping during the first breathing exercise. I am not sure I can explain what was different, but the pace was quick. I held the standing bow the entire length without falling out. I didn't waiver on the balancing stick either. Everything just clicked. Without putting too much thought into what I was doing, I listened to the instructions and just did it. In an earlier class, the instructor was talking about a class he took with Bikram, himself. Bikram said, "For the next 90 minutes you will only do what I tell you. You will not scratch, adjust your clothes, or even take a sip of water unless I say." I felt like that's what I was in. It was great. Before the tree stand, Paul said, "Don't drink, let's just finish this." We did. It felt as if the class was 45 minutes, but it really was the full 90. I was drenched worse than I ever had been before, and it was GREAT!
This morning was a little difficult getting out of bed. I was so cozy. Regardless, I got the blood flowing and stood up. Took the dogs on a walk after I think I woke both of them up. I left at about 5:20 AM and took the back roads. $1 a day for tolls is starting to add up. Paul was the instructor again. How he can maintain the same energy from a 6 pm class to a 6 am class is pretty unbelievable. He warned us of the garlic he ate last night for dinner, but I didn't notice any garlic smell in the room. Debra did very well for it being her second class. I hope she keeps it up because I would love to observe someone else's progression. There are of course more reasons I hope she keeps it up, but that's my selfish reason.
My energy is high today. The smile is in full force. The work emails are already flowing in and they do not bother me. When I can get up and work my way through 26 asanas in 105 degrees, then I can certainly work through 8 hours of email and other people's business problems. My mind is set for success. My body feels great. My pants are a bit loose. My makeup looks great! I am ready.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Amber - It's Going to be a great week!
What a great day! I woke up to 2 dogs licking my face. I went to yoga a little early to meet my friend Debra who had decided to try Bikram for the first time. She managed to smile even though the first class is so difficult. With the heat and the confusion of which way does your hand go and what foot and right under left or was it left under right... Karen met me shortly after I arrived and we went into the class. I don't know what it was, but I woke up in a good mood and I knew today was going to be a good day. Class was great... really great. I never felt hot - I seemed to have a smile on all class. Karen and I shared each others mats for the triangle pose so our feet didn't slip. Rima got a little chuckle out of that one. The 90 minutes seemed to fly by. The power of thought - it really can change the whole day.
The day is not over and my weekend is not done... In fact let's change that thought. The calendar the way it is normally printed shows Sunday as the first day of the week and not the last. Most Christian faiths think of Sunday as the last day of the week - but why don't we start the week with a day off and end the week with a day off? So today is the first day of my week - and I have to say - it's going to be great!
The day is not over and my weekend is not done... In fact let's change that thought. The calendar the way it is normally printed shows Sunday as the first day of the week and not the last. Most Christian faiths think of Sunday as the last day of the week - but why don't we start the week with a day off and end the week with a day off? So today is the first day of my week - and I have to say - it's going to be great!
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Amber - Bikram is my Replacement
Since I last wrote I have been to two yoga classes. They couldn't have been more polar opposite of each other. Last night I arrived at about 5:50 pm. The class wasn't quite as full as other 6 pm classes. I got through the breathing and the initial warm-up. I got through the standing head to knee (which means I hold up my knee and stand on one foot) and then I don't know what happened. I was dizzy and sick to my stomach. I had to sit for what felt like 3/4 of the class. I was able to do some of the seated series but not much else. I have heard this can happen on occasion, but I had yet to experience it. There are a few factors that led me to this point I believe - I definitely didn't drink enough water. I traveled that day to Maryland for a lunch meeting and didn't bring a bottle of water for the car ride. Normally that would be ok. It only took me 45 minutes to get there. Of course, this is DC traffic, so it took me 2 hours to get back to the office. That was nearly 3 hours of no water. During the day I average about 16 ounces of water an hour. By the time I get to a 6 pm yoga class I am well hydrated and ready to sweat. Last night I just felt as if the sushi I had for lunch was cooking in my stomach. I never left the room though. I continued to sweat and work through it.
After yoga last night, I went to my friend Marilee's condo to watch "The Secret." It is not your average "self-help." It emphasizes the law of attraction and the power of thought. Have you ever had a morning where everything seemed to go wrong? Of course, we all have. It only takes one good thing to happen to change that cycle. The thing most of us don't realize is we have the ability to make that good thing happen by just thinking about good. I will not re-hash the stories it tells or the lessons it teaches. My reason for bringing this up is, although I had a rough night, I was able to have a great morning class. I went into class saying I will do well today, I will have a great class, and I will do something I haven't done before.
It is amazing when you change your thought from can't to can what happens. Reggie complimented my breathing, I got through my warm-ups, for the first time I was able to grab my foot for the foundation of standing head to knee, and I continued through the class without hesitation. Reggie made me laugh and I had a smile on throughout the entire class. The power of thought - the law of attraction - Whether I say I can or I say I can't - I am right. The choice is mine.
The amazing thing about the law of attraction is you are often surrounded by people of your like mind or state. Since I've made the choice to change my life, I have never been happier. Most of those around me are able to share in my happiness. Most of my friends have been supportive. There are a few that are not supportive and rather feel that I think I am better than everyone. I will tell you, I am not nor do I feel that way any day at any moment. I have tried to quit smoking many times before, this is the first time I have been successful - but I am only 3 weeks successful. I have tried to diet many many times before - but this is the first time I've been successful and it's only been a month. I have tried to work out consistently before - once again, this is the first time I have been successful and it's because I found something that is working for me. I try to share my excitement of what I have found because I only wish the same happiness for everyone around me. That doesn't mean my way is the way - it means I hope that maybe I can help motivate those to find their way.
Everyday we surround ourselves with stresses and negativity. It can be as simple as getting angry about the traffic, or angry about what a co-worker does or doesn't do, or what a customer has to say. It could be an unexpected delay in a project or an unexpected bill in the mail. Instead of spending time focusing on the stresses that are out of our direct control, why don't we spend just as much time celebrating the successes of the day. Tuesday through Thursday I start my day with yoga. Monday and Friday I end my day with yoga. The instructors talk about releasing the toxins from the body - but the biggest toxin I release is that in my mind. I am releasing the negativity, the stress, the problems that are out of my control and gaining clarity to change the things I can. Those changes become successes - Those successes become the very things I celebrate. I can control my diet by not focusing on what I shouldn't have, but all of the things I can have. I can control smoking with the help of a medication and a replacement of habit. I can control my work-out consistency, by making it a part of my schedule. If what Debra says is true that it takes 21 days to form a habit - well next Tuesday I have formed the habit of not drinking or smoking and next Wednesday I have formed the habit of including yoga in my life. Replacement.
Replacement starts as early as we all can remember. Well, even earlier than we remember I'm sure. I recall baby-sitting 2 and 3 year olds. There were times where one child wanted to play with the toy the other child was playing with. As opposed to just taking the toy away from one, I always offered a replacement. So while I'm still in the habit breaking stage - I have to focus on the replacement.
With change comes sacrifice - but if I don't focus on the sacrifice and only focus on the success - the change will become reality. It is like the heat that becomes un-noticeable over time as long as the focus shifts and the power of thought becomes life.
After yoga last night, I went to my friend Marilee's condo to watch "The Secret." It is not your average "self-help." It emphasizes the law of attraction and the power of thought. Have you ever had a morning where everything seemed to go wrong? Of course, we all have. It only takes one good thing to happen to change that cycle. The thing most of us don't realize is we have the ability to make that good thing happen by just thinking about good. I will not re-hash the stories it tells or the lessons it teaches. My reason for bringing this up is, although I had a rough night, I was able to have a great morning class. I went into class saying I will do well today, I will have a great class, and I will do something I haven't done before.
It is amazing when you change your thought from can't to can what happens. Reggie complimented my breathing, I got through my warm-ups, for the first time I was able to grab my foot for the foundation of standing head to knee, and I continued through the class without hesitation. Reggie made me laugh and I had a smile on throughout the entire class. The power of thought - the law of attraction - Whether I say I can or I say I can't - I am right. The choice is mine.
The amazing thing about the law of attraction is you are often surrounded by people of your like mind or state. Since I've made the choice to change my life, I have never been happier. Most of those around me are able to share in my happiness. Most of my friends have been supportive. There are a few that are not supportive and rather feel that I think I am better than everyone. I will tell you, I am not nor do I feel that way any day at any moment. I have tried to quit smoking many times before, this is the first time I have been successful - but I am only 3 weeks successful. I have tried to diet many many times before - but this is the first time I've been successful and it's only been a month. I have tried to work out consistently before - once again, this is the first time I have been successful and it's because I found something that is working for me. I try to share my excitement of what I have found because I only wish the same happiness for everyone around me. That doesn't mean my way is the way - it means I hope that maybe I can help motivate those to find their way.
Everyday we surround ourselves with stresses and negativity. It can be as simple as getting angry about the traffic, or angry about what a co-worker does or doesn't do, or what a customer has to say. It could be an unexpected delay in a project or an unexpected bill in the mail. Instead of spending time focusing on the stresses that are out of our direct control, why don't we spend just as much time celebrating the successes of the day. Tuesday through Thursday I start my day with yoga. Monday and Friday I end my day with yoga. The instructors talk about releasing the toxins from the body - but the biggest toxin I release is that in my mind. I am releasing the negativity, the stress, the problems that are out of my control and gaining clarity to change the things I can. Those changes become successes - Those successes become the very things I celebrate. I can control my diet by not focusing on what I shouldn't have, but all of the things I can have. I can control smoking with the help of a medication and a replacement of habit. I can control my work-out consistency, by making it a part of my schedule. If what Debra says is true that it takes 21 days to form a habit - well next Tuesday I have formed the habit of not drinking or smoking and next Wednesday I have formed the habit of including yoga in my life. Replacement.
Replacement starts as early as we all can remember. Well, even earlier than we remember I'm sure. I recall baby-sitting 2 and 3 year olds. There were times where one child wanted to play with the toy the other child was playing with. As opposed to just taking the toy away from one, I always offered a replacement. So while I'm still in the habit breaking stage - I have to focus on the replacement.
With change comes sacrifice - but if I don't focus on the sacrifice and only focus on the success - the change will become reality. It is like the heat that becomes un-noticeable over time as long as the focus shifts and the power of thought becomes life.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Amber - The Perfect Circle
I made it. It was my third day in a row getting up at 4:30 AM! Luckily it is also the last day this week that it is even an option to take a sunrise class. I mention sunrise because when I arrive it is dark. During the floor part, which happens the last 30 minutes, you can watch the sun rise during each Savasana. The Savasana is the "dead body pose" or as one instructor likes to call it the flying in the clouds pose. You lay with your head towards the front of the class and your feet towards the back. I can see directly out of the windows and I stare at the sky and trees. It is a glorious part of class because you do this in between each asana. It's a time to rest and reflect. It allows your body to absorb what you have just done. Normally, it is only about 20 seconds. As I've mentioned before, between the standing series and the floor series you take about 3 minutes and lay there. I am guessing on the time - but if feels like an eternity. I have not been able to master the art of relaxation in there. I get antsy and can't hold still. I'll have an itch or need to prevent a drip of sweat from going up my nose or in my eye. There is always something. At the end of class, there is a final Savasana. In this Savasana, the lights in the room are turned out and I can relax. The instructor comes around with a cold, wet, lavender smelling cloth for each student. Unfortunately during the sunrise classes, I can not take the time I would like during this final moment. Work is only an hour away from beginning and a shower is definitely in order. For the 2 minutes or so before I quietly get up it is pure heaven. My last moments before the reality of the day sets in.
During the evening classes I take about 10-15 minutes in the final Savasana. I lay there and let the weight of the day finally leave me. I never bring home my laptop during the week, so these days I truly leave my work at the office. There are pro's and con's to taking the morning vs. the evening classes and vice versa. For productivity at work, the morning class is the far better choice. Probably for my metabolism, the morning is the better class. For true meditation and relaxation, the evening class is the best choice. If only it weren't so crowded! It may be time for Rima to open up another studio or expand this one. The popularity can only be a good thing for the studio, but man it gets hot! It is a nice difference in the morning to have the room to spread out and not feel so close to everyone else.
Yoga is about individuality with one common goal. It is a meditation. It is organized and methodical. There is a beginning, a middle, and an end. It is a perfect circle. The best processes in work, at home, in a story have these elements. They have one common effect - when the process is complete you have gained. At work you have completed a project or a sale. At home, it can be as simple as the cycle of the day. In a story you have gained a little more intellect for reading, even if it isn't a literary masterpiece. Who knows, maybe you are gaining a little right now... I know I am just by writing.
PS: Even if it is a small and trivial exercise, try and reflect every day on what you have gained. I do that every day right here. This is a new and very eye-opening experience for me. When I sit down and begin the daily blog - I don't know where I am going to go with the story. Every day for over a week now I have had a revelation about yoga and how it compares to life and what I can take from that. If we all reflect on the day - you may find your own revelations about your life and what you can take from it. I am just a student of life and learning every moment of every day about myself and others.
During the evening classes I take about 10-15 minutes in the final Savasana. I lay there and let the weight of the day finally leave me. I never bring home my laptop during the week, so these days I truly leave my work at the office. There are pro's and con's to taking the morning vs. the evening classes and vice versa. For productivity at work, the morning class is the far better choice. Probably for my metabolism, the morning is the better class. For true meditation and relaxation, the evening class is the best choice. If only it weren't so crowded! It may be time for Rima to open up another studio or expand this one. The popularity can only be a good thing for the studio, but man it gets hot! It is a nice difference in the morning to have the room to spread out and not feel so close to everyone else.
Yoga is about individuality with one common goal. It is a meditation. It is organized and methodical. There is a beginning, a middle, and an end. It is a perfect circle. The best processes in work, at home, in a story have these elements. They have one common effect - when the process is complete you have gained. At work you have completed a project or a sale. At home, it can be as simple as the cycle of the day. In a story you have gained a little more intellect for reading, even if it isn't a literary masterpiece. Who knows, maybe you are gaining a little right now... I know I am just by writing.
PS: Even if it is a small and trivial exercise, try and reflect every day on what you have gained. I do that every day right here. This is a new and very eye-opening experience for me. When I sit down and begin the daily blog - I don't know where I am going to go with the story. Every day for over a week now I have had a revelation about yoga and how it compares to life and what I can take from that. If we all reflect on the day - you may find your own revelations about your life and what you can take from it. I am just a student of life and learning every moment of every day about myself and others.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Amber - The Big Picture
Once again I decided to go to the morning yoga class. This morning it was at 5:30 AM. I woke up at 4:30 again. I took the dogs on the same walk I go on every day. I almost slipped and fell - clearly I did not have a mirror in front of me to focus on and balance. It's also hard to focus when you can barely open your eyes. I quickly changed and left the house at 4:45 AM. I had packed my bag the night before. I even remembered a hair brush this time. This morning was a small class. After taking all of the evening classes that had been hitting nearly 50 people it was so nice to spread out. I don't think there was a double row anywhere.
Class started promptly. I am SO close to being able to grab my foot on the standing head to knee pose. The standing bow posture I can normally hold. I may fall out of it once - today I seemed to have left my balance at home in bed. I normally dread the triangle pose, but today it seemed to work! The rest of the standing series went smoothly. I was going deeper into the stretches and it felt great. Today's instructor was the same one that assisted me about a week ago. She is so encouraging. (I'm not just saying that because I found out she reads this) She has great dialogue that keeps you going throughout. I am not sure how they have the huge energy they do at 5:30 in the morning. After about 30 minutes I'm right there with them - but I definitely didn't start that way!
Motivation, determination, focus, commitment, energy, passion, desire are all things that get you through the class. Aren't these the same thing you can apply to anything in life though? It makes it easier to do the things that take you out of the comfort zone when you can apply the aforementioned traits to the big picture. While Bikram is broken into 3 distinct parts made up of 26 asanas and 2 breathing exercises, it is one fluid meditation. It takes some of those things you don't like to get to the things you do like. I find taking the class in the morning is a perfect start to my day. I walk in to work more motivated and focused. I am far more productive. Even though I take a break every morning to write this blog - it re-focuses me on the life lessons I am learning through the meditation. Once again - the big picture. Ultimately, isn't that what this is about?
Class started promptly. I am SO close to being able to grab my foot on the standing head to knee pose. The standing bow posture I can normally hold. I may fall out of it once - today I seemed to have left my balance at home in bed. I normally dread the triangle pose, but today it seemed to work! The rest of the standing series went smoothly. I was going deeper into the stretches and it felt great. Today's instructor was the same one that assisted me about a week ago. She is so encouraging. (I'm not just saying that because I found out she reads this) She has great dialogue that keeps you going throughout. I am not sure how they have the huge energy they do at 5:30 in the morning. After about 30 minutes I'm right there with them - but I definitely didn't start that way!
Motivation, determination, focus, commitment, energy, passion, desire are all things that get you through the class. Aren't these the same thing you can apply to anything in life though? It makes it easier to do the things that take you out of the comfort zone when you can apply the aforementioned traits to the big picture. While Bikram is broken into 3 distinct parts made up of 26 asanas and 2 breathing exercises, it is one fluid meditation. It takes some of those things you don't like to get to the things you do like. I find taking the class in the morning is a perfect start to my day. I walk in to work more motivated and focused. I am far more productive. Even though I take a break every morning to write this blog - it re-focuses me on the life lessons I am learning through the meditation. Once again - the big picture. Ultimately, isn't that what this is about?
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Amber - Distractions
I got up this morning at 4:30 am. Took the dogs on a nice walk - the weather is quite mild for March. I came back to the apartment, changed for yoga and left at 5:15 am. Yes, I went to the 6 am class today. If you notice in previous posts I said I feel better when I go in the morning. So I challenged myself to get up. I signed up for the 6 am class yesterday so I wouldn't make any excuses this morning. I showed up with one eye open, signed in, put my stuff down and went into the hot room. I refused to lay down for fear of going back to sleep. So I sat there and sipped on my water for about 15 minutes before the instructor walked in. When he walked in, I am not even going to sugar coat this, he took my breath away. The man should be an underwear model! Perfect teeth, strong voice, tan body, amazing build.... But, just like I had to do in class - I will change my focus to yoga.
Today's class was great. It was early so I didn't have much on my mind. There weren't that many people there compared to the evening classes so I didn't feel cramped in any way. The nice thing about a morning class is I am already relaxed when I walk in. I can go deeper into my postures. I leave feeling even better. I still can't seem to get passed the nauseous dizzy feeling going into the Camel pose. I have yet to really do that one. I feel like I have cramps and like I'm going to throw up. I took off my 80's sweat band today for the second set of Camel and I was less dizzy but just as cramped. While there are a few postures I still struggle with the foundation, this is the only one that gives me true angst.
I will probably be posting a second, but quick blog this afternoon. Today is the first month weigh-in for our office competition. I have almost 2 full weeks of Bikram and about 4.5 weeks of a diet. I haven't weighed myself since last Monday... The suspense is in full force!
Every day is full of distractions. It could be the great looking yoga instructor, or it could be the phone, or your email, or a person stopping at your desk. The key to success is focus on what is important. Pull yourself into the "zone" and greatness will follow close behind.
Today's class was great. It was early so I didn't have much on my mind. There weren't that many people there compared to the evening classes so I didn't feel cramped in any way. The nice thing about a morning class is I am already relaxed when I walk in. I can go deeper into my postures. I leave feeling even better. I still can't seem to get passed the nauseous dizzy feeling going into the Camel pose. I have yet to really do that one. I feel like I have cramps and like I'm going to throw up. I took off my 80's sweat band today for the second set of Camel and I was less dizzy but just as cramped. While there are a few postures I still struggle with the foundation, this is the only one that gives me true angst.
I will probably be posting a second, but quick blog this afternoon. Today is the first month weigh-in for our office competition. I have almost 2 full weeks of Bikram and about 4.5 weeks of a diet. I haven't weighed myself since last Monday... The suspense is in full force!
Every day is full of distractions. It could be the great looking yoga instructor, or it could be the phone, or your email, or a person stopping at your desk. The key to success is focus on what is important. Pull yourself into the "zone" and greatness will follow close behind.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Amber - The Choice is Mine
It's Monday, the start of a new work week. I woke up today 30 minutes before my alarm went off. I have heard you need less sleep when you do Bikram. I have always "needed" less sleep then I choose to get. I have to say I had a great weekend. I got up every morning at about 7:30. I went to yoga at 10 am. I saw a great movie last night with the girls! Went grocery shopping after. Got home, worked on a project for mom and went to sleep at about 11:30ish. I found out this morning after I walked the dogs that my phone was in the living room. It is a good thing that I woke up, because my phone is also my alarm. It is a pretty great feeling to get up without one of those things. I feel like when I wake up with an alarm it is an interruption to a beautiful thing called sleep!
Yoga yesterday was far better than the day before. The class did feel a bit hotter but not bothersome. Initially I did not click with the instructor that led yesterday's class. In some ways, I'm not sure that I do now. I can respect his teaching style, I just don't feel that I'm ready for it yet. I suppose it is similar to management styles. Managers lead a group with different approaches - like the micro manager vs. the manager that steps back and comes in as needed. That's not to say either one is wrong. Just not for everyone. I am sure though, if I had him my first class - I don't think I would have come back. This was clearly destined for me though. The stars aligned or God stepped in - whichever you believe.
Divine intervention is an amazing thing. People come into your life when you least expect them. Situations happen that are unexpected that change your path. Partnerships emerge when you didn't think it was possible. For me, I had a doctor's visit that didn't go the way I expected. I made a choice to change my lifestyle and replace the bad habits with a good one. It is part of my perfect series. I am working very hard to make those changes. I write daily to remind me why I am doing what I am doing and where I want to be. Everyone changes in their own time. The catalyst is theirs to discover. What I can say is never change for someone else - do it for yourself. At the end of the day the reward is yours. On the days I feel like I take a step back, I know that step back is still above my first steps. No matter what, I have improved physically, mentally, and spiritually - but the journey has still only just begun.
Yoga yesterday was far better than the day before. The class did feel a bit hotter but not bothersome. Initially I did not click with the instructor that led yesterday's class. In some ways, I'm not sure that I do now. I can respect his teaching style, I just don't feel that I'm ready for it yet. I suppose it is similar to management styles. Managers lead a group with different approaches - like the micro manager vs. the manager that steps back and comes in as needed. That's not to say either one is wrong. Just not for everyone. I am sure though, if I had him my first class - I don't think I would have come back. This was clearly destined for me though. The stars aligned or God stepped in - whichever you believe.
Divine intervention is an amazing thing. People come into your life when you least expect them. Situations happen that are unexpected that change your path. Partnerships emerge when you didn't think it was possible. For me, I had a doctor's visit that didn't go the way I expected. I made a choice to change my lifestyle and replace the bad habits with a good one. It is part of my perfect series. I am working very hard to make those changes. I write daily to remind me why I am doing what I am doing and where I want to be. Everyone changes in their own time. The catalyst is theirs to discover. What I can say is never change for someone else - do it for yourself. At the end of the day the reward is yours. On the days I feel like I take a step back, I know that step back is still above my first steps. No matter what, I have improved physically, mentally, and spiritually - but the journey has still only just begun.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Introducing . . . . the little brother's ex-girlfriend
Hello everyone,
My name is Ashley. I have been a practitioner of Bikram Yoga for the past four years. Amber mentioned me as one of the people who helped pique her interest in this incredible yoga practice.
But first, some background.
I am an actress, living in New York City. Just before I started incorporating Bikram into my life, I had some major personal upheavals. I was looking for something that I could count on, that would continually challenge me, and help me with the health problems I was dealing with. When I was 17 I was diagnosed with a cyst the size of a plum on my right ovary which needed immediate surgery. After the surgery I was left with 1 1/2 ovaries, four incision sites, a lifetime prescription of birth control and debilitating migraines that struck almost every day. O, and lets add a little more. I was never told to attend physical therapy, so my incisions never healed properly, and would give me some really intense pain that I can only describe as a 'pulling' sensation. I turned 20 with many of the same problems I had directly following the operation.
I needed to change something. Coming to the realization that you no longer have to live with your pain is a very interesting place. Whatever your pain is, in your knees, your back, your blood pressure, you heart, we as humans need to see that our pain is NOT what defines us, and letting go of it brings us closer to who we are then keeping it ever could. And I came to the point to let go of the bullshit. But how?
My dance teacher and a follow classmate at the time where both Bikram yogis, and they urged me to give it a try. I remember very little about my first class, other than the teacher was a man named Luke who was covered in tattoos and who remarked that I had a very flexible back. And I remember calling my mother right afterwards and saying, 'I think I like it.'
That first week I went back to class every day. I was hooked.
Since then I not only have become incorporated into the Bikram Yoga NYC family as a student and a studio sub manager, but my practice has become quite advanced. So much so that the owners of my studio are badgering me in earnest to take part of the Bikram Yoga Competition.
I will explain the competition some other time.
However, what is more, I no longer get migraines as often as I used to. As opposed to every day, I now get them maybe once or twice a month. I only get a pull from my scars once in a blue moon, but I still only have 1 1/2 ovaries. I am stuck with that one.
Bikram really changed my life. I am healthier, stronger and feel more myself then I ever have in my life.
A couple of things I would like to highlight from Amber's previous posts.
1. Not leaving the room.
The room is hot. I mean really hot. And, in all honesty, as a New York City Bikram practitioner and having take class in other cities I can safely say that the NYC studios are consistently the hottest studios. However, if you leave during class you are telling your subconscious that what you are going through is bad and wrong and it will be harder for you to stay next class. If you feel nauseous, light headed or overwhelmed, simply taking a knee or sitting down completely is perfectly acceptable. Just don't be lazy.
2. Wiping sweat off during class.
Amber mentioned in one of her blogs that she needed to constantly wipe off sweat. Hate to say, but doing that will only make you hotter AND make you sweat more AND dehydrate you faster. Your body sweats to cool off, and when you wipe off the sweat you body says, 'Shit, we have to cool down again,' and uses more of your water to sweat. My advice, LET IT FLOW! Enjoy the dripping!
3. Don't dwell on the negative.
Amber mentioned in her last post that she didn't go to class and she made some choices that could be considered as taking a step backward, but that she wasn't going to dwell on the negative. Everyone, including myself, should take this mantra and run with it, in the studio and out of it. One day off is not going to kill you. In fact, Bikram himself advises one day off. When you develop flexibility and change the muscles you are actually tearing muscles a little. Thats why your body hurts the day after a workout/yoga class/whatever. And your body does need time to absorb your work.
But I have strayed from my point.
You may feel like you are going backwards, but you are not. You achieve more on those crappy days when you push through the crap then on the days you feel like a rock star. So don't be hard on yourself on the crap days, and don't let yourself off the hook on the awesome ones.
Ok, I think thats all from me tonight (this morning?). Please post questions, I would love to answer them.
Namaste, my friends!
Axxx
My name is Ashley. I have been a practitioner of Bikram Yoga for the past four years. Amber mentioned me as one of the people who helped pique her interest in this incredible yoga practice.
But first, some background.
I am an actress, living in New York City. Just before I started incorporating Bikram into my life, I had some major personal upheavals. I was looking for something that I could count on, that would continually challenge me, and help me with the health problems I was dealing with. When I was 17 I was diagnosed with a cyst the size of a plum on my right ovary which needed immediate surgery. After the surgery I was left with 1 1/2 ovaries, four incision sites, a lifetime prescription of birth control and debilitating migraines that struck almost every day. O, and lets add a little more. I was never told to attend physical therapy, so my incisions never healed properly, and would give me some really intense pain that I can only describe as a 'pulling' sensation. I turned 20 with many of the same problems I had directly following the operation.
I needed to change something. Coming to the realization that you no longer have to live with your pain is a very interesting place. Whatever your pain is, in your knees, your back, your blood pressure, you heart, we as humans need to see that our pain is NOT what defines us, and letting go of it brings us closer to who we are then keeping it ever could. And I came to the point to let go of the bullshit. But how?
My dance teacher and a follow classmate at the time where both Bikram yogis, and they urged me to give it a try. I remember very little about my first class, other than the teacher was a man named Luke who was covered in tattoos and who remarked that I had a very flexible back. And I remember calling my mother right afterwards and saying, 'I think I like it.'
That first week I went back to class every day. I was hooked.
Since then I not only have become incorporated into the Bikram Yoga NYC family as a student and a studio sub manager, but my practice has become quite advanced. So much so that the owners of my studio are badgering me in earnest to take part of the Bikram Yoga Competition.
I will explain the competition some other time.
However, what is more, I no longer get migraines as often as I used to. As opposed to every day, I now get them maybe once or twice a month. I only get a pull from my scars once in a blue moon, but I still only have 1 1/2 ovaries. I am stuck with that one.
Bikram really changed my life. I am healthier, stronger and feel more myself then I ever have in my life.
A couple of things I would like to highlight from Amber's previous posts.
1. Not leaving the room.
The room is hot. I mean really hot. And, in all honesty, as a New York City Bikram practitioner and having take class in other cities I can safely say that the NYC studios are consistently the hottest studios. However, if you leave during class you are telling your subconscious that what you are going through is bad and wrong and it will be harder for you to stay next class. If you feel nauseous, light headed or overwhelmed, simply taking a knee or sitting down completely is perfectly acceptable. Just don't be lazy.
2. Wiping sweat off during class.
Amber mentioned in one of her blogs that she needed to constantly wipe off sweat. Hate to say, but doing that will only make you hotter AND make you sweat more AND dehydrate you faster. Your body sweats to cool off, and when you wipe off the sweat you body says, 'Shit, we have to cool down again,' and uses more of your water to sweat. My advice, LET IT FLOW! Enjoy the dripping!
3. Don't dwell on the negative.
Amber mentioned in her last post that she didn't go to class and she made some choices that could be considered as taking a step backward, but that she wasn't going to dwell on the negative. Everyone, including myself, should take this mantra and run with it, in the studio and out of it. One day off is not going to kill you. In fact, Bikram himself advises one day off. When you develop flexibility and change the muscles you are actually tearing muscles a little. Thats why your body hurts the day after a workout/yoga class/whatever. And your body does need time to absorb your work.
But I have strayed from my point.
You may feel like you are going backwards, but you are not. You achieve more on those crappy days when you push through the crap then on the days you feel like a rock star. So don't be hard on yourself on the crap days, and don't let yourself off the hook on the awesome ones.
Ok, I think thats all from me tonight (this morning?). Please post questions, I would love to answer them.
Namaste, my friends!
Axxx
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Amber - What do you have to Lose?
I didn't go to yoga last night. It amazes me that the one day I don't go it seems I revert so quickly to bad habits... No, I didn't drink or smoke. Those habits I think are put to bed. I drank iced tea at lunch which would normally be fine, but I always have at least a liter of water in the morning before lunch and about 2 liters after lunch. I don't think I drank more than 16 oz of water all day! For dinner I thought I deserved a break. I've been working SO hard for more than 3 weeks. So, I didn't listen to my body - I listened to my brain. I believe the advice I had received said to do the opposite. I did have quite the amazing evening out. I saw a musical that I had never seen before with some of the most amazing people I know that I can call adopted family! Although, I think they adopted me and I just gladly accepted. Emotionally I felt like I was in the right place. Then I went out with a high school friend that has come back into my life. She has also gone through a lot of physical and emotional change and we are relating very well right now. She is a source of great support. I hope I can help her on the emotional side of her new growth. To the point that I was making, I did go to yoga today. It was rough.
Yesterday, I focused on the choice you make right now or today or tomorrow directly affects the next moment or day or week. It is a perfect series. Taking the night off of yoga was not the mistake, but taking a night off of everything I've been working on was. Even better is that I can learn from that and I now realize what I need to do.
I will not dwell on the negative impact of my choices because that does not mean the entire class was negative. It definitely started rough, but it finished the best it had. Every class I still progress and I have to challenge myself to reach outside of what is comfortable. I was able to grab both feet in the bow posture with no assistance like before. In fact I did it with ease. The instructor always guides you to grab your right foot and then your left from the outside. I wonder if I would more easily get into the posture if I grabbed my left and then my right. I am not sure if there is a reason we do one before the other or if it makes a difference. It seems that in Bikram everything is very methodical and I'm sure there is a reason. I am not going to question that or try and change anything, because to my earlier point - it would just be making it more comfortable or easy.
About the heat... the past 2 classes I've attended I almost felt chilly. I was still sweating - but not hot. This was not just at the end of class, but in the beginning, middle and end. The last class I felt this way I checked the temp on my way out, it was 101 degrees. Today it was 102 degrees. For those of you that have the main concern about how hot it is in the room, trust me when I tell you that it doesn't just become secondary it becomes non-existent.
In order to better myself and continue to grow, I have to reach outside of what's comfortable. I need to challenge myself to go a step beyond where I've been before. I have never been one to settle on anything. When I worked at Outback, I started as a host/take-away server and before I blinked I was working in the Regional Office. When I realized that Outback was not a life long career, I started the change. I had never worked in an software company before. I started as the receptionist and grew to working with HR and Marketing. When I was too comfortable there and the room for growth was not available, I moved on. I have continued to do that in my career never settling. I never seemed to do that in my personal life. I never stretched beyond what was comfortable. Never putting my feelings or my needs out there for fear of rejection. I was too scared of what might be to find out what is. In yoga, I am forced to go beyond what's comfortable. Sometimes it doesn't work, so I try again. The feeling you get when it does work, far surpasses the rejection I might have felt. To never try is only giving up on myself.
Yesterday, I focused on the choice you make right now or today or tomorrow directly affects the next moment or day or week. It is a perfect series. Taking the night off of yoga was not the mistake, but taking a night off of everything I've been working on was. Even better is that I can learn from that and I now realize what I need to do.
I will not dwell on the negative impact of my choices because that does not mean the entire class was negative. It definitely started rough, but it finished the best it had. Every class I still progress and I have to challenge myself to reach outside of what is comfortable. I was able to grab both feet in the bow posture with no assistance like before. In fact I did it with ease. The instructor always guides you to grab your right foot and then your left from the outside. I wonder if I would more easily get into the posture if I grabbed my left and then my right. I am not sure if there is a reason we do one before the other or if it makes a difference. It seems that in Bikram everything is very methodical and I'm sure there is a reason. I am not going to question that or try and change anything, because to my earlier point - it would just be making it more comfortable or easy.
About the heat... the past 2 classes I've attended I almost felt chilly. I was still sweating - but not hot. This was not just at the end of class, but in the beginning, middle and end. The last class I felt this way I checked the temp on my way out, it was 101 degrees. Today it was 102 degrees. For those of you that have the main concern about how hot it is in the room, trust me when I tell you that it doesn't just become secondary it becomes non-existent.
In order to better myself and continue to grow, I have to reach outside of what's comfortable. I need to challenge myself to go a step beyond where I've been before. I have never been one to settle on anything. When I worked at Outback, I started as a host/take-away server and before I blinked I was working in the Regional Office. When I realized that Outback was not a life long career, I started the change. I had never worked in an software company before. I started as the receptionist and grew to working with HR and Marketing. When I was too comfortable there and the room for growth was not available, I moved on. I have continued to do that in my career never settling. I never seemed to do that in my personal life. I never stretched beyond what was comfortable. Never putting my feelings or my needs out there for fear of rejection. I was too scared of what might be to find out what is. In yoga, I am forced to go beyond what's comfortable. Sometimes it doesn't work, so I try again. The feeling you get when it does work, far surpasses the rejection I might have felt. To never try is only giving up on myself.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Amber - What a difference!
So, it's been a full week. Once again I have a new instructor. Luckily the moves never change like in a dance class or an aerobics class. It is actually a good thing to have a different instructor in Bikram. Each teacher has a style and certain things they say. Each teacher gives a different insight into what your reaching for with one common goal. I find that each class I hear something or pick up something I didn't get before. After 8 classes, you would think that would start to diminish - but it doesn't. There is always a way to improve and grow in your practice. Practice is what they call it. Seemed a bit odd to me at first too... but that's just what it is. I don't know that there is ever perfection in any posture or asana because you can always go deeper. What that means to me is we are all equal in the class. Where do you find that - true equality.
The class is always made up of all types of people. There is a very vast age range, so many different body types, different ethnicities. This may be the answer to world peace - what do you think? Throw everyone in a hot room to meditate and improve your body from the inside out. So, that is just a pipe dream - but for me - it's certainly taking my hostility towards minor things away.
I'll talk about last night specifically. Afterall, this blog is so I can look back and know how I progress, right? Yesterday I talked about my back bend during the half moon series. I was able to see the wall. Well, last night, the instructor after the first set (everything is done in 2 sets) stopped and asked my name and told me what a good practice I was doing! After a week, I got a compliment on a posture! Not that I had improved from before, because he had never seen that, but I was doing it right and good enough to take note. The rest of the class felt great! I still can't get into everything - but I still try and I am so close. By the end of the month I should be able to grab my foot for the standing head to knee posture. I have to make realistic goals, because I don't think my head is going to hit my knee just yet. If you don't know what posture I'm referring to - go back to my first blog second link. My goal for the end of the month is to perfect the first step of every posture and prepare for the second. A good foundation is essential in everything you do and Bikram is no exception. In fact, a good foundation is required.
What I can tell you is Bikram finds a way to put life into perspective. I have the luxury to take 90 minutes in a studio and work hard. I have this luxury because I put the bad habits to rest. I could not afford to do this if I was drinking and smoking and going out like I was. I assure you I don't make enough money to do both! So, life truly is about the choices we make and the future we desire. Every move leads to the next and in a perfect series life is like the 26 asanas of Bikram.
The class is always made up of all types of people. There is a very vast age range, so many different body types, different ethnicities. This may be the answer to world peace - what do you think? Throw everyone in a hot room to meditate and improve your body from the inside out. So, that is just a pipe dream - but for me - it's certainly taking my hostility towards minor things away.
I'll talk about last night specifically. Afterall, this blog is so I can look back and know how I progress, right? Yesterday I talked about my back bend during the half moon series. I was able to see the wall. Well, last night, the instructor after the first set (everything is done in 2 sets) stopped and asked my name and told me what a good practice I was doing! After a week, I got a compliment on a posture! Not that I had improved from before, because he had never seen that, but I was doing it right and good enough to take note. The rest of the class felt great! I still can't get into everything - but I still try and I am so close. By the end of the month I should be able to grab my foot for the standing head to knee posture. I have to make realistic goals, because I don't think my head is going to hit my knee just yet. If you don't know what posture I'm referring to - go back to my first blog second link. My goal for the end of the month is to perfect the first step of every posture and prepare for the second. A good foundation is essential in everything you do and Bikram is no exception. In fact, a good foundation is required.
What I can tell you is Bikram finds a way to put life into perspective. I have the luxury to take 90 minutes in a studio and work hard. I have this luxury because I put the bad habits to rest. I could not afford to do this if I was drinking and smoking and going out like I was. I assure you I don't make enough money to do both! So, life truly is about the choices we make and the future we desire. Every move leads to the next and in a perfect series life is like the 26 asanas of Bikram.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Link
Got a link for you... It's really a good article and a great student testimonial. http://www.purecalma.com/bikram_yoga.html
Amber - Challenge of Change
I want to begin this saying that Bikram, after only one week, has become a lifestyle. If I don't go in a day, which I've only done once, I feel like something is missing. It is a life changing lifestyle. I can't imagine smoking before class and getting through it. This makes it easier to quit. I definitely can't imagine drinking before class. I would probably pass out. I'm sure people do both - but can you really get the benefits? Ashley gave me one piece of advice. She said - listen to what your body craves. When your brain and your body have a conflict of cravings, go with your body. It will tell you what it needs. I don't think I've ever eaten healthier and I've been so satisfied. That's not to say the cake doesn't look good or that hot steaming loaf of bread with the oil and spices doesn't look good... but that's just it - my body wasn't craving those, just my brain.
I noticed washing my face has been a bit different. After I turn into a human water fountain for about 90 minutes, there really isn't anything dirty about me. I shower immediately when I get home. I wash my face in the shower. I get out and use an astringent just like I've always done. But now, the cotton is clean when I use the astringent. It used to remove that last bit of dirt still stuck in my face. I've been doing this for years so it's not like all of a sudden I have no more dirt. I've just released all of the physical toxins from my body in class. That is the one piece of hard proof I can offer you after only a week.
Those love handles in my back - well, they are certainly smoothing out! Pretty soon when they say "See your ribs in the mirror" - I may actually do that! I don't know if it's possible, but I think my neck is getting longer. I can only imagine it is possible with all of the spine stretching we do.
During class it is so quiet. No one talks. Everyone just concentrates. I was initially very self conscience coming to this class. The truth is, if you look at what someone else is doing and what they look like, you will mess up and lose balance. At times it feels as if you are the only one in that room. Just when you don't think you can't do any more - you do. I'm not sure it's always visible that I'm doing more - but I feel it.
Last night during the opening series of warm ups - in my opinion some of the most difficult to maintain - I was able to keep my arms up parallel to the ground the whole time. To do the math that is about 5 minutes. Maybe a bit more if you include the second set. The first few my shoulders burned so much I couldn't do it. I also noticed that in the half moon, my arms stayed at my ears and my palms did go together. Maybe I had achieved that in the last class - but I didn't notice. I'm not sure that I went any deeper into the posture, I just did it correctly. Oh and speaking of the half moon... When leaning back - I did see the back wall!
The one major thing I can't seem to get past is near the end of the standing series my ankles kill. I hope this will improve with strength. I know I'm not swollen. If anything I've lost weight in my feet because the heels I wore yesterday, normally cut into the top of my foot - but they were comfortable ALL day!
This may sound minor to you the reader... but every little improvement I make only leads to greater physical improvement, greater mental improvement, and an overall better quality of life. Change takes time. It takes dedication. I can not expect to be that girl I was when I was 18 in a week. I can expect to see the changes starting to happen. I believe that I will be better than that 18 year old I once was. I will be more healthy. I will have a greater outlook on life. I will have done it on my own and faced the challenge of change.
I noticed washing my face has been a bit different. After I turn into a human water fountain for about 90 minutes, there really isn't anything dirty about me. I shower immediately when I get home. I wash my face in the shower. I get out and use an astringent just like I've always done. But now, the cotton is clean when I use the astringent. It used to remove that last bit of dirt still stuck in my face. I've been doing this for years so it's not like all of a sudden I have no more dirt. I've just released all of the physical toxins from my body in class. That is the one piece of hard proof I can offer you after only a week.
Those love handles in my back - well, they are certainly smoothing out! Pretty soon when they say "See your ribs in the mirror" - I may actually do that! I don't know if it's possible, but I think my neck is getting longer. I can only imagine it is possible with all of the spine stretching we do.
During class it is so quiet. No one talks. Everyone just concentrates. I was initially very self conscience coming to this class. The truth is, if you look at what someone else is doing and what they look like, you will mess up and lose balance. At times it feels as if you are the only one in that room. Just when you don't think you can't do any more - you do. I'm not sure it's always visible that I'm doing more - but I feel it.
Last night during the opening series of warm ups - in my opinion some of the most difficult to maintain - I was able to keep my arms up parallel to the ground the whole time. To do the math that is about 5 minutes. Maybe a bit more if you include the second set. The first few my shoulders burned so much I couldn't do it. I also noticed that in the half moon, my arms stayed at my ears and my palms did go together. Maybe I had achieved that in the last class - but I didn't notice. I'm not sure that I went any deeper into the posture, I just did it correctly. Oh and speaking of the half moon... When leaning back - I did see the back wall!
The one major thing I can't seem to get past is near the end of the standing series my ankles kill. I hope this will improve with strength. I know I'm not swollen. If anything I've lost weight in my feet because the heels I wore yesterday, normally cut into the top of my foot - but they were comfortable ALL day!
This may sound minor to you the reader... but every little improvement I make only leads to greater physical improvement, greater mental improvement, and an overall better quality of life. Change takes time. It takes dedication. I can not expect to be that girl I was when I was 18 in a week. I can expect to see the changes starting to happen. I believe that I will be better than that 18 year old I once was. I will be more healthy. I will have a greater outlook on life. I will have done it on my own and faced the challenge of change.
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