... is my children's favorite thing to say when we sit down to watch a movie together! It always makes me laugh, but it is true that in this frenetic culture, silence is priceless. Whenever I am struggling with a problem, looking for inspiration or just feeling out of sorts, it is in silence that I find a solution.
Just like the rest of your yoga practice, silence takes patience. In my yin classes I often tell students to sit with whatever emotion arises out of the silence - some feel relief for the break from the noise of living, some are uncomfortable in the quiet, and some are simply neutral to it. Whatever the response, it's important to practice this act of getting quiet. Once you are able to let go of the static noise of your mind, you'll be amazed at what bubbles to the surface from deep within... but you have to be quiet in order to pay attention to it!
What we are practicing now...
Hanumanasana (splits pose) is a bit intimidating to students, especially if the hamstrings are tight. It is such a great pose for the hips, thighs and abdominal organs that it should not be overlooked. I enjoy taking students into the pose in a very yin way, relaxing as much as possible in each step to overcome the fear that can arise during this pose. Go to my favorite yin resource and following the instructions for the "Dragon Flying High" and then the "Dragon Splits": yinyoga.com. Rest in Child's pose between legs and then come to your belly and breathe deeply, sending thoughts of safety to counter any feelings of vulnerability. Fellow yoga teacher Kelly McGonigal has posted some beautiful insights on her website about this pose: www.openmindbody.com.
Schedule updates...
Lunchtime yoga at Symantec on hold: the company needs the space for cubicles, so our Tuesday/Thursdays series is taking a break; we hope to start back up again in August at the Mountain View location. This is not a reflection on the wonderful yogis who have been so dedicated to the practice over the last 18 months - you all are the best! I hope to reconnect with you in classes elsewhere, or in August at our new space.
