Yoga by Lorien

The Year of Living Consciously Part 1

2012-01-02T09:13:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! As you can see by the title of this blog, I've decided to change things up a little in 2012. Each month, I'll invite you to join me in ways to be a little more present, more aware, more forgiving and more joyful.

This month, take some time to notice your mind. The mind can be sharp, reflective and clever, or it can be dull, clinging and repetitive. See if you can step back from your thoughts every now and then and really look at what's arising in your mind. Each thought sends ripples through your being as your mind assigns a condition to it (that's a "good" thought, for example), and we'll explore those ripples next month. For now, just look at the thoughts and see if you can notice the conditions that arise just following each thought. Think of this as training the mind - like swimming laps or doing sit ups. You must repeat this exercise over and over to really receive the benefit: less identification with your thoughts. Meditation is a good place to practice this, but you can do this at any time, any place. Practice being the witness of your thoughts, a simple but challenging skill.

Namaste

Schedule updates and special events; please see Special Events age for more details...

NEW series: Beginning Jan 12, Lorien will be teaching a daytime 6-week series based on Hanna Somatics work. These are gentle sliding, rocking movements done on the floor to help regain awareness and flexibility while relieving pain. Class meets Thursdays, noon-1:00pm at Willow Glen Yoga. 6 weeks for $80. Pre-register at www.willowglenyoga.com.
NEW ongoing class: Yoga Basics is an exploration into the fundamentals of the yoga practice: breath, posture, energy. Each week is a different theme to help beginners to advanced students alike fine tune their practice. Class meets Wednesdays, 7:30-8:45pm at Breathe Los Gatos. Check fees and new students specials at www.breathelosgatos.com.
April 27-29, 2012 Weekend Retreat with Lorien and Marti Foster at Mayacamas Ranch in Calistoga. See Special Events for more info.

Maybe Yes, Maybe No

2011-12-01T08:31:00.000-08:00

Change is often received poorly by us humans. I've recently stepped onto a path that has already begun to change me. Each time I notice a difference, I'm tempted to pass judgement on it, label it and distance myself from it. I've done a lot of work to stay present in my breath so that I can notice these things coming up, but I wasn't able to see my distancing habits until I re-discovered an old story. Now my mantra is "maybe yes, maybe no", which helps me to not attach a label to anything arising, and helps me accept the changes with more grace. Here is that story:

There was once a farmer whose only horse ran away. On that evening the neighbors gathered to sympathize with him, for surely this was such bad luck. Now your farm will suffer and you will not be able to plow, the neighbors warned the farmer. Such a terrible thing to have happened to you, they said.
The farmer said, “maybe yes, maybe no.”

The next day the horse returned and brought him six wild horses, and the neighbours came to congratulate him and celebrate his good fortune. Now you are richer than before, they said. Surely now this has turned out to be such a very good thing, for you, after all.
The farmer said, “maybe yes, maybe no.”

The following day, the son saddled and rode one of the wild horses. He was thrown off the horse and broke his leg. Now the son could not work on the farm. Again the neighbours came to offer their sympathy for such an inconvenient truth. They noted that there was more work than the farmer could handle and surely now he would become poor. Such bad luck, indeed.
The farmer said, “maybe yes, maybe no.”

The day after that, conscription officers came to the village to take all the young men for the army, but because of his broken leg, the farmer’s son was disallowed. When the neigbours arrived again, they said how very fortunate the farmer was, as things had worked out after all. Knowing well that most young men never return from the war alive, this was the best fortune yet.
And the old farmer said, “maybe yes, maybe no.”

I hope this story helps you with any of your changes. Because if there is one guarantee in life, it's that it will change. Happy holidays and Namaste.

Schedule updates and special events; please see Special Events page for more details...

THIS WEEKEND: Saturday, December 4th 1:00-3:30om, Lorien will teach her Sweet Surrender Restorative Workshop at Willow Glen Yoga Studio. This is a perfect opportunity to gain tools to reduce stress effects and regain serenity during this hectic season!
Special classes: For the month of December, Lorien will be teaching a Foundations of Flow class on Tuesdays at 10:30am at Breathe Los Gatos. This class explores the concepts of flow - breath, balance, energy, strength, ease - in an ongoing 75-minute class format. Join us!
Beginning next Monday (Dec 5th), you can register for the Gentle Yoga Kaiser classes that begin in January. These classes are held Monday, Wednesday and Friday (register for each separately), 9:30am-10:30am at one of the Kaiser buildings off Homestead. Both Kaiser members and non-members can join these classes. Call (408) 851-3800 to register after Dec 5. Classes run 10 weeks and are $80 for members, $120 for non-members.
SAVE THE DATE: April 27-29, 2012 Weekend Retreat with Lorien and Marti Foster at Mayacamas Ranch in Calistoga... more info coming soon!

Growing Past Being Wrong

2011-11-01T07:47:00.000-07:00

My husband and I have a long-running joke about how neither one of us can be wrong. After 14 years of marriage, we've come to the understanding that just because one of us is right, it doesn't make the other wrong. But recently, I've become aware of some hard truths that led me to the realization that I was wrong. (There, Aaron, I said it.) I was wrong about some fundamental things that were really making my life unhappy. Even after I realized these truths, my ego stuffed them down to protect itself. I became defensive and angry as my ego reacted in fear. I was convinced that my life was a power struggle and to admit my mistakes would diminish my power. On this, I was truly and sadly wrong! Admitting my mistakes not only helped my situation, but also empowered me to move forward without the weight of these misconceptions. I am always advocating letting go of the ego in my yoga practice, but it's important to take that off the matt, too. During this process I asked the question "what does the ego do for us?" and the answer that came back was, "it gives us the opportunity to grow." The next time you are faced with a situation - on or off the matt - that makes you defensive, ask yourself if this is an opportunity to grow...

Schedule updates and special events; please see Special Events page for more details...

Lorien will be on retreat Nov 6-11, but classes will continue with subs.
Nov 11-12: Lorien's teacher, Tias Little, will be at Breathe Los Gatos for three weekend workshops, and Lorien will be assisting him! Check out his offerings here. You don't want to miss these!
Special classes: Lorien will be subbing the following classes at Breathe Los Gatos: Tuesday, Nov 29 10:30am Foundations of Flow and Wednesday, Nov 30 noon Gentle Yoga.
Saturday, December 4th 1:00-3:30om: Sweet Surrender Restorative Workshop at Willow Glen Yoga Studio
SAVE THE DATE: April 27-29, 2012 Weekend Retreat with Lorien and Marti Foster at Mayacamas Ranch in Calistoga... more info coming soon!

Fall trees & Impermanence

2011-10-01T09:03:00.000-07:00

Life is change. As the seasons turn, I am reminded of this more and more. Life is change. As the Buddhists state it, everything about this life is impermanent. We may be a dedicated practitioner of yoga and a skilled meditator, but life will still change and continue to challenge what we know to be true. The tree in front of my house may be a good tree, a tree who makes all the right choices, but still, the season turns and the tree's leaves fall. This season, I invite you to be a reflection of my tree: sink deeply into your roots, stretch tall through your limbs and let go of what you can no longer cling to. And who knows? Maybe we'll all shine with brilliant colors like the trees in the fall.

Schedule updates and special events; please see Special Events page for more details...

Lorien will be on retreat Nov 6-11, but classes will continue with subs.
Nov 11-12: Lorien's teacher, Tias Little, will be at Breathe Los Gatos for three weekend workshops, and Lorien will be assisting him! Check out his offerings here. You don't want to miss these!
Saturday, December 4th 1:00-3:30om: Sweet Surrender Restorative Workshop at Willow Glen Yoga Studio
SAVE THE DATE: April 27-29, 2012 Weekend Retreat with Lorien and Marti Foster at Mayacamas Ranch in Calistoga... more info coming soon!

Yoga and the Art of Subtlety

2011-09-01T08:09:00.000-07:00

We humans are so driven by sensory input. Our culture feeds this, too. Sometimes I feel that yoga is merely a respite for this addiction, and perhaps I should start each class by saying, "Hello, my name is Lorien and I'm an input addict..." What happens when we turn down the volume on the external input? For some of us, going cold turkey and rehabilitating in a silent setting (aka, silent meditation retreat) is what's needed. For others, it's a matter of managing the input: setting limits for external information and scheduling quiet moments. I have earplugs next to my bed and I will use them with my meditation occasionally, to really turn down the external and focus more on what's arising from within. Try it, you might like it. Namaste.

Schedule updates and special events; please see Special Events page for more details...

NEW CLASS: Lorien now teaches gentle yoga for Kaiser on Mondays and Fridays at 9:30am; this series fills fast, so register early through Kaiser (if the class is full but we get enough people on a waiting list, we can open another series)
Sunday, September 11th 1:30-4:00pm: Soothe Your Soul Workshop at Breathe Yoga Studio; register NOW at breathelosgatos.com or 408-370-9642 (YOGA)
Saturday, December 4th 1:00-3:30om: Sweet Surrender Restorative Workshop at Willow Glen Yoga Studio
SAVE THE DATE: April 27-29, 2012 Weekend Retreat with Lorien and Marti Foster at Mayacamas Ranch in Calistoga... more info coming soon!

Connect Inside to Connect Outside

2011-08-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

It's a Friday yin class and my inspiration is low. I've taught a variation of this same class all week and said the same cues and encouragement over and over. It's still relevant, but by Friday it feels less sincere. And then, just as I've gotten out of my own way and stopped scripting it all, my mouth spouts out words that I didn't even know were in my head, and the theme of the class unfolds itself to me: "Reflect on what's happening inside so that you can connect deeper with those around you." But getting quiet and still and diving deep within is a tough sell in this culture of ultra-stimulation; some times just getting people to put down their phones before (or even during!) class is challenging. But we must slow down and be quiet to really understand what's going on inside us. When we are still, we hear what the body is telling us, what the mind is telling us, and what our emotions are saying. When we practice that stillness, we learn more about ourselves. We realize what our true motivations are, what our values are and what we are willing to surrender. Knowing these help us to know others better, and to connect with them on very honest, deeper levels. So don't take sitting quietly for granted; get in touch with what's happening inside to feel others around you. Namaste.

Schedule updates and special events; please see Special Events page for more details...

Lorien will be subbing the following Yin classes at Breathe: Thursdays 6:00-7:30pm on August 4, 18, 25 and Saturday 11:45-1:00pm August 27.
Saturday, August 13th 1:00-2:30pm: Yoga on the Beach at New Brighton Beach, Capitola
Saturday, August 20th 1:00-3:00pm: Dynamic Hatha Yoga Fundraiser Class with Lorien and Cindy Campbell at Willow Glen Yoga
Sunday, September 11th 1:30-4:00pm: Soothe Your Soul Workshop at Breathe Yoga Studio
SAVE THE DATE: April 27-29, 2012 Weekend Retreat with Lorien and Marti Foster at Mayacamas Ranch in Calistoga

Throwing Clay and Practicing Yoga

2011-07-18T09:16:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, my daughter and I had the opportunity to take a pottery class from my friend, Kyczy Hawk. Kyczy is - among other things - an artist, yoga studio manager, yoga teacher of special populations (catch her at Breathe Los Gatos on Thursdays at 1pm for Chair Yoga), and amazing potter. We found common language between throwing clay and practicing yoga; at one point she directed my daughter to “exhale and slowly release out”, which sounds just like a yoga class cue. It got me thinking about how these two activities are similar and what we can learn from both of them.

In yoga practice, we begin with a foundation, usually in the feet and legs and look to the breath to create ease and steadiness. Kyczy taught us that the first step on the potter’s wheel is to create a piece that is centered; this is done by alternating working the clay down and then guiding the boundaries inward and up. When the piece is centered, there is an ease in the rotation and you imagine an audible snap as it comes together. It’s similar to when you are working with balancing poses and suddenly all your joints line up and you feel effortless in the pose.

After centering the piece on the wheel, we worked with making a hole and then sides to the piece. This is where things can become quite challenging. I was tempted to leave your lump centered and without form because it’s symmetry was beautiful, and I had invested so much work into it. But now Kyczy’s told us to poke our thumbs into this beautiful shape and dig a hole out of it. That first intrusion was almost painful and required a lot of trust; it reminded me of opening into Wheel (full backbend) for the first time, digging my thumbs into my heart-center and opening it wider.

But that’s what we do as practitioners: we find the comfortable and move beyond it. Our first attempts are often messy, painful and “flawed”. When we completed the steps Kyczy had outlined for the day, she brought us into her house to show us her first bowls. She pointed out the cracks, the uneven thickness and the drips in the glaze, and reminded us that she uses these bowls every day and that we can embrace those “flaws” in our own work and see beyond them to the magic of what we’ve created. This is now my yoga practice, too.

Leaning Back On the Ancestors

2011-07-07T11:01:00.000-07:00

The end of June and the beginning of July was particularly bountiful for me. In other words, I fell behind in a lot of things!

I wanted to start my catching-up process by sending a big, heartfelt THANK YOU to all of you who participated and donated in the 108 Challenge last month. I will be removing the videos at the end of July, so you still have them for a few more weeks. I will have the donation totals later this month.

Thank you also to all my wonderful subs who filled in for me during my 2-week absence. I took a family trip and then a yoga training that ended up being more about my own practice and less about my teaching. Yes, even after 12 years of practice, I still can learn a thing or two (or 2,000) about yoga.

One of the many gems that I unearthed was the idea of "leaning back on the ancestors", or trusting the practice and all those who came before me. For someone who has spent a great deal of her life practicing radical independence, that idea was profound. This week, when I found myself slipping into a pattern of negativity about all that I was not keeping up with, I took a deep breath and leaned back a little. I visualized a mountain, a tree or a person back there, holding me. It's wildly freeing, because I knew that it didn't matter to the mountain if I checked and replied to all my emails that day, and the tree doesn't care that I didn't make the bed, and my grandmother still sends me loving dreams even if I've forgotten my login account. That kind of support is always there if we just take notice. Try it. Take a deep breath and lean back a little.

Namaste.

Mindfulness Matters Part 2

2011-06-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Last month I participated in a wonderful event at Breathe Los Gatos that raised funds for Japan Relief. I've been to other fundraisers before, but I noticed a difference right away with this one. Before the fundraiser even began, Jennifer Prugh announced that she wanted this event to raise a few thousand dollars; I believe she even targeted an amount around $5,000, but I'm not sure now. What I found bold was her very public announcement of what she wanted to have happen. For much of my life, I kept my desires hidden so as not to be disappointed if they didn't come to fruition. But here was someone fearless enough to state in a very public way what she wanted. And you know what? They raised over $7000 in that event!

I was inspired by Jennifer's daring and decided to go public with what I am working on. As many of you have read by now, I am developing a wellness DVD for a non-profit group called Human Connexus. Last week, I announced that I would campaign to raise funds for this DVD project by posting 108 rounds of Sun Salute variations on YouTube, and I'm asking for 108 donations from participants. I'm putting it out there: I envision that we will raise 108 donations by the end of June!

So, Universe, there is my intention. I'm going to keep that intention in my mind and work towards it with all I say and do in the coming weeks. This is mindfulness in action. Last month I posted about watching your thoughts, words, actions, habits, character, destiny. This is the next step. Namaste.

Schedule changes and special events...

Note: I will be on vacation June 18-July 1, but classes will continue with subs. Please go to Special Events for more details.

108 Challenge: Compassionate Yoga Serving Us All! June 1-18. Check YouTube or Facebook for daily short sequences that are variations of 6 rounds of Sun Salutes; practice every day until June 18 to complete 108 rounds, or a yoga mala. Please contribute to Human Connexus to help us gather 108 donations, a compassionate mala.
June 12: Cancer Survivor Day at Kaiser; free yoga with Lorien in 3 different 45-minute sessions. For more information, please click here.
Sept 11: Soothe Your Soul Workshop at Breathe Los Gatos, 1:30-3:00pm.
SAVE THE DATE: Next retreat is scheduled for April 27-29, 2012 with Lorien and Marti Foster at Mayacamas Ranch in Calistoga. You do not want to miss this one!

108 Challenge: Compassionate Yoga Serving Us All

2011-05-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

Don't want to read? Click here to watch a 2-minute video for an overview of what's below.

What is a Yoga Mala?

Sun salutation or Surya Namaskara is a dynamic sequence of 12 postures performed as one continuous flow. A mala is a string of 108 beads used in prayer and chanting; 108 sun salutations becomes a yoga mala. There is a yogic tradition to practice 108 sun salutations as an offering of peace or to honor the change in seasons, like the upcoming Spring Equinox.

What Does This Mean to Me?

Beginning Wed, June 1 and continuing through June 18, I'll be posting yoga videos on YouTube of various sun salutations. Some with be gentle enough for all abilities, some will be challenging. Each day will have 6 rounds taking between 6-12 minutes - short and sweet! So, if you practice every day, then by June 18 you'll have completed a yoga mala.

Why am I doing this?

As some of you may already know, I am making a wellness yoga DVD for the nonprofit group Human Connexus. This group does extraordinary work! They find families who are struggling financially due to some unforeseen circumstances, and give them help to get by. Many of these families are dealing with medical issues. The wellness yoga dvd will be sent to each of the Human Connexus recipients in order to support their continued well-being. The dvd will be accessible to all levels and abilities, including bedridden and chair-bound participants. The cost to produce the video is $14,000 and we are actively pursuing funding from philanthropic foundations. In the meantime, we have organized an event that everyone can enjoy and support to raise the necessary funds to get this project started.

In addition to the challenge of practicing 108 sun salutations, we are looking to raise 108 donations - in any denomination. 108 donations of $10 each would get the project off the ground, and 108 donations of $100 each would pay for the whole project. Please donate what you can with a light heart. Practice to support yourself, and donate to support others. Pass along this challenge to as many people as you can - let's make compassion viral!

Namaste

Mindfulness Matters Part I

2011-05-02T10:22:00.000-07:00

Watch your thoughts, they become words.
Watch your words, they become actions.
Watch your actions, they become habits.
Watch your habits, they become your character.
Watch your character, it becomes your destiny.
~Unknown

Take a deep breath as you are reading this and observe your thoughts. Repeat this as many times as you can remember to do so throughout the day. Begin to realize that your thoughts are secretions of your brain, just like any other organ, and let go of any judgments about your thoughts. This is the first step to developing a compassionate mind.

Namaste,

Lorien

Foundational Questions for Spring

2011-03-24T08:11:00.000-07:00

Welcome, Spring! I know it's rainy, cold and dark outside as I write this, but spring is officially here: time to surrender the past, rebirth, grow and change. It's always a busy time for me and this spring is no exception. Between teaching classes and planning future workshops, retreats, chanting sessions and other fun projects, my mind has been drawn to the foundational question of what is yoga? I've recently read several articles about what yoga is not; like shadows defining the form, we often use the negative to describe our subject. But it's important to remember that the shadow is not the form. So, what is yoga?

In promoting my work with cancer patients, I travelled to several doctor's offices to pass out flyers. When I let them know that I teach yoga to cancer patients, I often got a quizzical look. I then offered to give a demonstration to the staff to show that I would not be asking their patients to wrap their legs around their heads. Most people have one or two views of yoga: it's an excuse to take a nap, or it's a contortionist practice. After twelve years of practice, I can safely say it is both and neither of those.

To me, yoga is about relationship. It is a physical practice that helps us relate to our own bodies, an energetic practice that relates us to our own breath, a mental practice that relates us to our own mind and a spiritual practice that relates us to everything else. It can be as simple as a good stretch or as complex as a total quality of life overhaul. The magic ingredient is us; we plant the seed, we cultivate the practice and we reap the harvest. People need guidance to begin with and possibly along the way, but the guru is really inside. The articles that I've read all point to the subject leaving themselves out of the equation; often quite painfully, they learned that yoga is not that.

This spring, let go of what no longer serves you, stretch past your limits safely and watch yourself blossom, but always remember your inner guidance. Namaste.

Schedule updates and special events; please click description for more details...

Lorien will be away for a training March 27-April 1. Classes will continue with subs.
NEW! Starting Tuesday, April 5, Lorien will teach a Yin Yoga class noon-1:00pm at Breathe in Los Gatos.
Class change: Tuesdays 1:00pm class at Breathe is now a Wellness Yoga class, which means that anyone dealing with chronic pain, compromised immune systems or chronic stress from illness or injury can find ways to improve their total quality of life through gentle yoga practices. Class is offered by donation ($12 suggested, but no one turned away). Please help spread the word!
Saturday, April 23: Yoga as Cancer Support workshop 1:00-4:00pm at Breathe in Los Gatos; this workshop is donation-based and is for patients, caregivers and professionals working with cancer.
Sunday, April 24 (Easter) OM for Peace Annual Chant: 3:00-4:00pm at Breathe in Los Gatos; this free hour of chanting OM is our annual Easter ritual to connect with others in an effort to send a vibration of peace out into the world. No need to register, no previous chanting experience needed, just come with an open heart.
Friday, April 29 - Sunday, May 1: Yoga Retreat to the Beach Immerse yourself in this relaxing weekend retreat at the beach in Watsonville; only 2 beds lefts - register NOW!
Coming soon: Wellness Yoga DVD... stay tuned for more details!

Shh... Listening

2011-03-01T08:10:00.000-08:00

It is always good to get away and experience something new, even if only to gain a different perspective on what is already there. I just returned from a family vacation in Hawaii, and found myself reflecting over my morning tea how different the soundtracks of daily life are between Hawaii and my home in San Jose, California. I sat and really Listened to life around me this morning in an effort to catalog the sounds. How often do we do that? What about when we are in conversation with friends, are we really Listening? You know when you are with someone who is, because it is such a different feeling; no need to interrupt to be heard, no need to repeat yourself, they gift you with eye contact, and (if it is new to you) it could feel very uncomfortable to have all of that interest directed on you. I'm not sure which came first, but chronic talking definitely has a factor in how much we Listen. The more we ramble, the less we feel heard, so the more we try to verbalize... an endless loop. In recent years, I have been trying hard to learn the art of Listening and I found that the first step is closing the mouth to open the ears. Meditation has definitely helped, because I am now less afraid of silence and more accustomed to the direct attention that someone who does Listen gives me - it is similar to the attention I give myself during meditation. Just think what would change in the world if more people Listened.

Schedule updates and special events; please click description for more details...

Lorien will be away for a training March 27-April 1. Classes will continue with subs.
Special classes: Lorien will be subbing Foundations of Flow classes on Tuesdays, March 15 and 22 at 11:00am at Breathe in Los Gatos.
Saturday, April 23: Yoga as Cancer Support workshop 1:00-4:00pm at Breathe in Los Gatos; this workshop is donation-based and is for patients, caregivers and professionals working with cancer.
Sunday, April 24 (Easter) OM for Peace Annual Chant: 3:00-4:00pm at Breathe in Los Gatos; this free hour of chanting OM is our annual Easter ritual to connect with others in an effort to send a vibration of peace out into the world. No need to register, no previous chanting experience needed, just come with an open heart.
Friday, April 29 - Sunday, May 1: Yoga Retreat to the Beach Immerse yourself in this relaxing weekend retreat at the beach in Watsonville; only 2 beds lefts - register NOW!
Class change: Tuesdays 1:00pm class at Breathe is now a Wellness Yoga class, which means that anyone dealing with chronic pain, compromised immune systems or chronic stress from illness or injury can find ways to improve their total quality of life through gentle yoga practices. Class is offered by donation ($12 suggested, but no one turned away).

Stealthy Love

2011-02-01T09:15:00.000-08:00

I mentioned in a yin yoga class a while back that students may not feel the many benefits of the yin practice right away, but that it sneaks up on you and you may notice a feeling of ease in the body and spirit without realizing its source. It got me to thinking about how some of the greatest gifts in my life were not necessarily love at first sight, but that they snuck into my heart and firmly lodged themselves there, much to my joy. Yoga itself is one of those. I was not sold on yoga from my first class. In fact, I left the class saying "I'll never do that again." Four years after that initial attempt, I enrolled in a class at the local YMCA and haven't stopped doing yoga since. I often reflect on that first class and wonder why it didn't hook me then and there; I know that you have to be in a specific place in your life to be interested in such an introspective, sometimes confrontational, practice. Not everyone is there the first time. I am known for my ability to work with people new to yoga, and I think that's because I never forget what it is like to be the new person in the room, to be so mystified by everyone's reaction and to be overwhelmed by my own. For some of us, the slow, stealthy approach is best; it gives us time to catch up to what our hearts already know.

Schedule updates and special events; please click description for more details...

Lorien will be on vacation Feb 20-28. Classes will continue with subs.
Saturday, Feb 5: Yoga as Cancer Support workshop 1:00-4:00pm at Breathe in Los Gatos; this workshop is donation-based and is for patients, caregivers and professionals working with cancer.
Friday, April 29 - Sunday, May 1: Yoga Retreat to the Beach Immerse yourself in this relaxing weekend retreat at the beach in Watsonville; space is limited, so register now.
Date TBD: Yoga for Cancer Support at Home workshop at Stanford hospital in Palo Alto; this workshop teaches patients and caregivers how to practice yoga at home, using household props and addressing common obstacles. This workshop is offered free of charge through the Stanford Cancer Support Program.

Stretch Goals for the New Year

2011-01-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, everyone! One of the things I remember about my corporate life is receiving annual reviews. I was always most interested in something called my stretch goals - things out of my comfort zone to reach for. This year, there are many things out of my comfort zone that I am reaching for. First, I am moving forward with working with cancer support by starting a weekly program at Breathe in Los Gatos. There is always an unknown element to this work because there really is no one approach that works for all; it's individual, just as the disease and the treatment side effects are individual. Each time I think I've got a formula, a new challenge presents itself. This is exciting and important to me, and will grow my skills tremendously. What is the real stretch goal in this program is to promote it. I need to speak with oncology staff, present the information in an intelligent, experiential way, so that they will recommend the work to their patients. I have so much respect for these people and I want to be sure to honor their work and explain how yoga can help them. That is definitely a challenge for me! Another stretch goal for me has to do with pricing my private sessions. If you go to the private yoga page, you'll notice a big range in pricing. The higher range has to do with overhead and paying the location. Since I have operated by donations or out of my house, this jump in cost is less comfortable for me, but better for my practice of valuing my own work. Those of you who have your own business know how this feels; it's a practice to strike that balance between asking for what you simply need to get by and asking for what your service is worth, especially in these tough economic times! I will trust, as I hope you do, that it will meet everyone's needs somehow. And that is what this coming year is all about. I wish for you to find your stretch goals as well, to do what is important but risky, and to learn the value of what you do.

Schedule updates and special events; please click description for more details...

New class! Beginning Monday, Jan 3, Lorien will teach an ongoing 7:15-8:45pm restorative yoga class at Downtown Yoga Shala in San Jose.
New class! Beginning Tuesday, Jan 4, Lorien will teach an ongoing yoga for cancer support class at Breathe in Los Gatos; this class is donation-based.
New class! Beginning Sunday, Jan 9, Lorien will teach an ongoing gentle yoga class at Breathe in Los Gatos.
Special class: Friday, Jan 14 9:00-10:30am Tapas Yoga at Breathe Los Gatos; a (mildly) heated class that includes breath-focused held postures to align and cleanse.
Special class: Saturday, Jan 15 9:30-11:00am Yoga Basics at GGBC in Campbell; come take this donation-based class and dive into the foundations of yoga with breath, alignment and relaxation.
Saturday, Feb 5: Yoga as Cancer Support workshop 1:00-4:00pm at Breathe in Los Gatos; this workshop is donation-based and is for patients, caregivers and professionals working with cancer.
Date TBD: Yoga for Cancer Support at Home workshop at Stanford hospital in Palo Alto; this workshop teaches patients and caregivers how to practice yoga at home, using household props and addressing common obstacles. This workshop is offered free of charge through the Stanford Cancer Support Program.

Cat Days of Winter

2010-12-01T12:43:00.000-08:00

There is the "dog days of summer", why not "cat days of winter"? We can learn a lot from our feline friends about how to take care of ourselves during the colder, darker months:

1) Sunbathe. Ever notice how cats will go to extreme lengths to catch a nap in the sun? If we all had that dedication to our vitamin D intake, we would help balance hormones and lower our risk of cancer.

2) Stretch. Anywhere, anytime in any direction. Lose the tension by undulating your spine a little every day, just like a cat.

3) Move mindfully. Cats are known for their grace, but if you watch a cat closely, you'll see they are very particular about how, where and when they step. Can you imagine taking a tentative step off a curb, then pulling your foot back and repeating that several times? You indeed would be ready to move once you finally committed to it!

4) Groom. Another things cats are known for is their obsessive grooming habits. Imagine you massaged your skin as much as a cat does (sans tongue!); you would be moving your skin and muscles continually, easing tension, improving circulation and lymph drainage - which is key to a healthy immune system.

It's no wonder cats are always napping; it takes a lot of effort to maintain this level of self care. Meow!

Schedule updates and special events; please click description for more details...

Saturday, Dec 11: FREE Community Restorative Class 1:00-2:30pm at Soula in downtown San Jose. Come early, only 20 spots available!
Sunday, Jan 2: Donation-based Gentle Yoga Class 5:00-6:30pm at Breathe in Los Gatos; all proceeds will support yoga for cancer survivors through yogabear.org.
New class! Beginning Tuesday, Jan 4, Lorien will teach an ongoing yoga for cancer support class at Breathe in Los Gatos; this class is donation-based.
New class! Beginning Sunday, Jan 9, Lorien will teach an ongoing gentle yoga class at Breathe in Los Gatos.
Saturday, Feb 5: Yoga as Cancer Support workshop 1:00-4:00pm at Breathe in Los Gatos; this workshop is donation-based and is for patients, caregivers and professionals working with cancer.
Date TBD: Yoga for Cancer Support at Home workshop at Stanford hospital in Palo Alto; this workshop teaches patients and caregivers how to practice yoga at home, using household props and addressing common obstacles. This workshop is offered free of charge through the Stanford Cancer Support Program.

Ticking Clocks and Other Blocks (to Meditation)

2010-11-01T08:32:00.000-07:00

I once experienced a student walk out of a restorative class that I was teaching because the clock ticking in the room was irritating her and she couldn't relax through it. I felt empathy, since I am also easily distracted by repetitive sounds. I went to a meditation teacher, Sharon Allen (who I am so fortunate to share space with at GGBC), and asked her what she recommends for this type of distraction. She offered a practice that I have found priceless, once that I have expanded on and that often helps me during meditation. Here is what she shared with me, along with my development.

First, identify the sensation (in this case, it is the sound of a ticking clock). Really focus on it, as if you were going to describe it later on to someone. Be interested in its qualities. As you rest your awareness on the sensation, notice if there is any change in its qualities. Next, notice that while there is a space for this sensation, there is also a space where this sensation doesn't exist. In the case of the ticking clock, there is a space in the room where there is an absence of the sound. Allow your awareness to rest there fully. Notice any judgements or opinions about the sensation or non-sensation and let those pass. Rest in this awareness of sensation for as long as you are able to stay with it without attaching to the sensation. You may begin to notice other sensations, but do so with this balance in mind, taking in the sensation and non-sensation and meeting both with equanimity. I work this way with sound, bodily sensation (breath, physical discomfort), thought and emotion. Try it - even for just 5 minutes a day - and see how it makes you feel.

Schedule updates

Please see Lorien's schedule page for ongoing classes appropriate for all levels of health and abilities.
Coming soon: therapeutic and cancer support classes in Los Gatos beginning Jan, 2011.
Retreat with Barbra Brady coming next spring in Sonoma; more details coming!

Fall Changes

2010-10-01T11:05:00.000-07:00

It's hot - well into the 90's during the day. The leaves are falling and the wind in blowing. Welcome to California's Fall. This time of year brings about change; in fact, it's the only thing about a California Fall that you can accurately predict. Change can be wonderful, but stressful to most of us. It is more important than ever that you listen to your bodies, ground through your feet and find quiet moments of stillness. I am not immune to the stresses of change myself, so I am extra vigilant this season about getting enough sleep, rest and relaxation. Use your practice as medicine; remember the tools of meditation, pranayama and asana to keep or improve your quality of life... it's what yoga is all about.

A new resource

Instead of my monthly What we are practicing now... write-up, I will be posting class sequences on a separate blog. You can access that blog here, or reference the link to the left. I hope it informs and assists you. Please feel free to comment!

Schedule updates

Thursday nights are happening in Campbell! Move with us at the 5:30 Hatha Flow class or sink deeply into the 7:15 Yin class at The Yoga Studio.
Wednesday Yin classes at GGBC in Campbell are now 6:00-7:15pm, and the suggested donation is $12 (or volunteer to help with props). Please spread the word about this great opportunity to go deep into the tissues, no matter your level of health or wealth!
Coming soon: cancer support and therapeutic classes on Tuesdays in Los Gatos; more details TBD...

Graceful Living

2010-09-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about grace lately. It's always been my desire to move through life, taking changes and disappointments with a graceful ease, because that is almost the opposite of what I had been doing until recently. I made a decision to find ways to improve my grace, but it's not so easy. A few months ago, I began learning a Brazilian martial art form called Capoeira. It combines dance, music, acrobatics and combat into a beautiful flow that really speaks to my heart. As I watch the more experienced Capoeiristas, I notice that quality of grace in their movements: they respond to their partner with attention and an ease that my beginner's body doesn't yet posses. But that is the point: grace takes practice, and sometimes you don't get it quite right. Each time I fall, each time I lose my temper, each time I apologize, I am learning grace. Just like my Capoeira games. Just like my yoga practice. Living gracefully is a practice. As Fall approaches, there are many changes coming; some I will respond to better than others, but all are opportunities to practice graceful living.

What we are practicing now...

Ardha Sarvangasana (half shoulder stand pose) is a wonderful pose for the warmer weather and is an inversion that in most of us can access. To view a picture and instructions, please click here. If your wrists can manage it, try being in this pose for 2 minutes to fully receive its benefits.

Schedule Updates and Events...

New Classes Thursdays! Beginning September 30, Lorien will be teaching 2 classes at The Yoga Studio in downtown Campbell. This studio is owned by a fellow graduate of my teacher training program and includes our trainer on its staff. It features Aerial yoga - a wonderfully therapeutic and fun way to practice yoga (see their website for pictures)! Lorien's classes on September 30 will be by donation, benefitting the public schools in Campbell. Please come by, help out the campbell community and see this beautiful space! Note new opening date.
September 25, 1:00-4:00pm Yoga and the Cancer Journey Workshop with Lorien and Michelle Duguay; hosted by Soula Power Yoga studio in downtown San Jose. $35 pre-registered, $45 day of. For more information, see Special Events or contact Lorien. Please help spread the word about this workshop so that all who are affected by cancer can learn how yoga can support them.
October 1-3 Yin and Yang Yoga Retreat with Lorien at Mount Madonna Retreat Center in Watsonville; there are only 2 spots left!!! Contact Lorien ASAP if you are interested in going. See Special Events for details.
Coming soon! Lorien will be teaching at another new studio opening in Los Gatos... stay tuned for more details.

Ask and You Shall Receive

2010-08-05T21:14:00.000-07:00

Sometimes asking for what we need or want is a hard thing to do. Maybe we aren't quite sure what it is that we need, so defining it is the challenge. Or maybe, the act of asking is foreign and riddled with fear. I had been mulling this idea over for a while when I came up with the plan to get really clear on what I wanted in my life. I made a simple text file on my computer's desktop and worked on my "request to the universe" for weeks. I prioritized my wishes and kept the language very simple and positive. (I had, after all, been working with bhavana for some time before this process.) After weeks of massaging the text in this file, I started to notice two things: first, my actions, words and thoughts all began to align with this request - rather than wait for the universe to provide these things to me, I would live my life in a way that promoted my request. Second, my requests began to come true! My request encompassed both personal and professional goals, and more and more of those are being met every day. Some of these are long term life goals that I will continue to meditate about and be aware of for years to come. It all began with a request. What will you request?

What we are practicing now...

I call this the "feline spine", and it's a purr-fect summertime practice! Moving fluidly and thoughtfully is a great way to release excess heat from your body. To begin, come into Child's pose and exhale all your breath out.

On your inhale, round your back high and bring your shoulders over your wrists into Cat pose.
On your exhale, arch your back and pull your hips back towards your feet.
Move forward and back that way a few times and when you've got the rhythm of the breath and movement, close your eyes and articulate each piece of your spine, undulating with your breath.
Repeat this for as long as you like and then move back into Child's pose (to end the practice) or Downward-Facing Dog pose (to continue the practice). Yum!

Schedule Updates and Events...

New Class Thursdays! Beginning September 23, Lorien will be teaching 2 classes at a new studio in downtown Campbell... more details to come!
September 25, 1:00-4:00pm Yoga and the Cancer Journey Workshop with Lorien and Michelle Duguay; hosted by Soula Power Yoga studio in downtown San Jose. $35 pre-registered, $45 day of. For more information, see Special Events.
October 1-3 Yin and Yang Yoga Retreat with Lorien has moved to Mount Madonna Retreat Center in Watsonville; fees have changed, see Special Events for updates.

Mind Befriends Body

2010-07-01T18:46:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had a friend who doesn't really listen to you? You try to explain something and this person talks right over you. It isn't much of a friendship, is it? Now think about your body and mind as two friends. Body continues to quietly speak to Mind, but Mind is oblivious and simply talks over Body. Not much of a relationship in that scenario. When we practice mindfulness through body scanning, we can think of the practice as strengthening this relationship by letting Mind (attention) be led by Body (sensation). This is a way for Mind to befriend Body, creating a deeper bond and better communication between the two - just like with friends. Practice body scanning in a seated or reclined position (see below for how to do a body scan). It is a wonderful skill and perfect for a more internal summertime practice.

What we are practicing now...

Body scanning is a kinesthetic mindfulness practice that brings your attention inward. Begin by finding a quiet, comfortable position, either seated or reclined. Try to place your body in such a way so that there is minimal sensation, using props if necessary.

Bring your awareness to the surface of your skin and notice your weight on the floor or chair. Let your breath be organic and notice how breathing in and out moves your clothing and skin. Release your weight a little more and notice the air all around you. Feel the whole back surface of your body and the whole front surface. Notice your left side and your right side.

Now bring your attention beneath the surface of your skin and turn your mind fully towards your body. Notice any part of your body that is calling for attention and rest your awareness fully there. As your breathe, be aware of how the sensation in this area changes. If you feel tension coming from this area, try exhaling through your mouth like you have just dropped a heavy load; repeat this as many times as you feel you need it. If another part of your body calls for attention, allow your mind to fully rest there. Continue to move your awareness through your body this way, letting your mind be led by sensation rather than thought. If thoughts arise, notice them but don't engage them and return to your practice, beginning at the surface of your skin, if necessary.

Practice this kinesthetic mindfulness for several minutes, then release it. Notice how you feel - mentally and physically. Return your attention slowly to the surface of your skin, clothing, floor/chair, air. Move into your next practice or simply come out.

Note: this practice is a combination of ingredients given to me by several teachers; my gratitude to Cheri Clampett, Arturo Peal, Kelly McGonigal and Sharon Allen. Namaste.

Schedule updates and events... see Schedule for complete class listing

Saturday, July 10th: celebrate Lorien's 40th birthday with a free beach yoga class at Moran Lake Beach in Santa Cruz; class begins at 10:30am. Bring water, towel and sun protection; there is limited parking on site. Immediately following the class, there will be a drum circle at the beach house 2 blocks away. Please join us if you are interested - no experience needed, you cannot do this wrong!
Yin & Yang Yoga Retreat Oct 1-3 in Sonoma, CA. See Special Events for more details.
Cancer support lecture and workshop with Michelle Duguay is set for September 25 at Soula Power Yoga in downtown San Jose. Look for more information coming soon!

Joy, Yoga & You

2010-06-01T11:27:00.000-07:00

Occasionally, I come across some really remarkable literature, or kernel of truth within some unremarkable literature that I resonate with completely. I recently bought a book called "Yoga for Chronic Pain Relief" by Kelly McGonigal, PhD. As the name implies, it is a wonderful book for working with chronic pain. What is not obvious is that the book outlines some universal truths in a simple and clear way, so that anyone can benefit from it. (No, I'm not receiving royalties, just want to share what I found.) People who suffer from depression, anxiety or any chronic illness can relate to what she writes. Here is one of my favorite concepts presented in an easy to understand way:

"Yoga identifies joy - a natural sense of well-being, gratitude, and peace - as the deepest aspect of what it means to be human. You might have felt this kind of joy at special moments in your life - the birth of a child, the view of a sunset, or while immersed in hands-on or creative work. These glimpses are not dependent on external events [the key point here]. It is simply easier to be in touch with your natural state of well-being in these special moments.

In the yogic view, joy is the closest to what you might call your true nature. It is not a fast-changing, fast-disappearing happiness that fluctuates according to your thoughts, mood, and present circumstances. In contrast, the ability to feel at peace in this moment is central to who you are. this inner joy is less vulnerable to the changes in your life, and it is not dependent on fixing what is wrong or getting what you want. Even chronic pain [or depression, illness, anxiety, etc.] cannot take away your ability to feel this part of yourself."

Please remember this notion when you are pain - emotional, mental or physical: your true nature is closest to joy, a deep well of bliss that is unchanged by circumstance. It is always there for you, beneath the layers.

Namaste.

What we are practicing now...

Sirsasana II (tripod headstand) is a challenging pose that requires warmed muscles, core strength, healthy neck and wrists and a good dose of courage. It is not to be held as long as traditional Sirsasana, but it is a pose that fits nicely into a dynamic practice. You should be able to hold Bakasana (crow pose) for a few breaths before trying this pose. Make sure you are properly warmed up, too. Here is a wonderful video that shows how to enter tripod headstand.

Be sure to rest in child's pose and then release your neck following headstand. Enjoy!

Schedule updates and events... see Schedule for complete class listing...

Coming soon: Stay tuned for the next workshop on Cancer, Yoga & Other CAM Therapies, a lecture and yoga practice that will help anyone in treatment and in remission (and their families). Next date TBD.
Save the date: on Saturday, July 10th, Lorien will be celebrating her 40th birthday with a free beach yoga class in Santa Cruz. 10:30am-noon at either Moran Lake, 21st Ave or Sunny Cove beaches... stay tuned for the final location (send me an email if you have a preference)!

Underwater Basket Weaving & Yoga

2010-05-02T10:15:00.000-07:00

I am always delightfully surprised by the image conjured up with the term "underwater basket weaving." It is actually a technique for softening the reeds used to weave together a basket (soak them in water and they will become more pliable and easier to manipulate); it is not - as so many picture in their minds, someone in full SCUBA gear sitting at the bottom of the ocean and weaving a basket! Although that view brings quite a smile to my face. What does underwater basket weaving have to do with yoga? Well, if we think of the rib cage as a basket - an image brought to me by my teacher, Tias Little, who calls it a "rib basket", then we wish for our basket to be both strong and supple to allow for deep breaths. I see so many students accessing their abdominal and back muscles (yay!) to the point that they harden and only breathe shallowly (boo!). We have to find the balance between these functions of our rib basket. I love the idea of soaking the tissues in prana to create a supple and strong basket. So, the next time you think about the muscles you use to sit or stand erect, think also of that underwater technique and breathe deeply. ~Namaste.

What we are practicing now...

Forearm plank (if there is a Sanskrit name, I don't know it) is a favorite of the Pilates practitioners and the perfect pose to find the above technique of creating a strong but supple rib basket.

Begin by coming to all fours and doing a few rounds of cat (back rounds) and cow (back arches) until you find your neutral spine.
Lower your elbows to the floor, placing them directly under your shoulders. Slightly round your upper back, like you are doing a subtle cat pose . This will stabilize your shoulders and begin to engage your muscles.
Extend your legs back and really firm your thighs, then extend energy through your heels; better yet, rest your heels lightly against a wall surface and push into that wall.
Feel how your rib basket grows hard and lean; keep some of that effort for stability, but soften it about 25% and notice your breath.

Keep playing with the balance of stability and flexibility of your rib basket by using your slow, smooth breath. Rest in Child's pose when you are done. Enjoy!

Schedule updates and events... see Schedule for complete class listing...

Coming soon: Stay tuned for the next workshop on Cancer, Yoga & Other CAM Therapies, a lecture and yoga practice that will help anyone in treatment and in remission (and their families). Next date TBD.
Save the date: on Saturday, July 10th, Lorien will be celebrating her 40th birthday with a free beach yoga class in Santa Cruz. More details to follow!

Ahimsa & Satya, Compassionate Communication

2010-04-02T08:04:00.000-07:00

In high school and college, I was always known by my friends as the "brutally honest" one. You didn't ask me a question that you didn't really want to know the answer to, because I'd tell you - and not in a gentle way, usually. Things have changed for me, though. I have been on the receiving end of some tough conversations, and I've delivered them. It is much more challenging to be kind and honest, but I feel much better after!

In yogic philosophy, there are some observances that are outlined that one should follow if seeking a connection to all things. Two of these observances are called ahimsa and satya. Ahimsa means non-harming and is listed first. I don't think that placement is accidental. Non-harming above all other actions is a good one to adopt. In fact, medical students are taught a similar phrase in medical ethics: primum non nocere is a Latin phrase that means "First, do no harm." Satya means truth. So, if I adopt a philosophy of non-harming truth, or compassionate honesty in my communications, I grow more connected to all things.

It is definitely more work to communicate this way. I must really think before I speak, and keep the strong emotions at bay, reflecting on my own truth instead of reacting to what is happening. It's a wonderful practice, and a great way to take yoga off your mat. It is like a yoga class for your soul. Namaste.

What we are practicing now...

Ustransana (camel pose) is a strong backbend that brings up a lot of fear in students, myself included! I came across this variation and I love it. It feels safe, supported and still a great opening for the chest, throat, stomach, shoulders. The key is finding the balance between tucking the pelvis to find length in the low back and moving the groins back toward the feet so as not to harden the hip flexors. To come into the pose:

Set up at a wall. Bring 2 bolsters (a pillow and a foam roller work, too) and kneel in front of the wall.
Put one of the bolsters between you and the wall, the other on top of your calves.
Now, slide your buttocks down to feel the pelvic tilt; at the same time, draw your groins in and back toward your feet to protect the hip flexors. Play with that alignment until it feels right.
Reach back for your prop on your calves (you may lift it higher by tucking your toes under, if needed). Rotate your arms outward to open your chest and shoulders and breathe here. This is a good ending point, especially if you've had fear in this pose before.
To go deeper, lift your chest higher and play with bringing your head back. Don't do this if your breathe becomes challenged. Keep the actions in the legs and hips and peel open your heart as you stay here for as long as it is appropriate.
When you come out, sit back on your prop for a few breaths. Check in to see if you would like to do another round, or then move into your counter-pose. I like Child's pose, then Upavistha Konasana. Enjoy!

Schedule updates and events... see Schedule for complete class listing...

This Saturday! Yoga enChanting Workshop: Join us for a sequence of chest/shoulder/throat opening postures, followed by chanting and meditation. Class is $40 at Willow Glen Yoga.
This Sunday! Om for Peace: Join us at Willow Glen Yoga for an hour of chanting "om" as a meditation on peace. We are joining others all around the planet during the same hour as they chant om for peace, too. We'll meet from 3:00-4:00pm on Easter Sunday. Come for however long you like, chant at your own pace, volume, pitch. Join your voice in this beautiful expression for peace! No fee.
Intro to Yoga Series: next 6-week series begins on Thursday, April 22 at 7:45pm. This class meets for 6 weeks as we go through the basic breath, physical actions, postures and sequences of yoga. Appropriate for those new to the practice, or those needing a refresher. See Willow Glen Yoga to register. You must pre-register for this series.

A New Look

2010-03-01T19:33:00.000-08:00

As you may have noticed, my web site and blog are now one and the same! I've also changed my email address, but the old one will work until the end of March. I hope you enjoy the new look. Please let me know if there are any issues with getting to information or downloads. As most of us do, I fell into the habit of doing nothing instead of keeping my internet ducks in a row. I spent too much money on a domain name, email and web hosting service. It just seemed too painful to look around and take a chance on something new. Sound familiar? Well, as is the case with me, when I don't do what I need to do, life gives me a little (sometimes big) nudge: in this example, my web hosting service decided to drop that part of their service. Without it, I couldn't justify over-paying for email. And since I was changing things up, I looked around for a new domain name registrar. (By the way, if all of this sounds like a foreign language to you, you are not alone! Just know that there are a few steps involved with creating a web site.) So now I've "cleaned house", in my electronic world... rid myself of old emails, costly services and my website looks leaner.

As all of this was happening, I received another nudge. One night, I was driving my family around and my daughter noticed that my yoga bag was wet: my water bottle had leaked all over it, and some cough drops that I always keep in there (to avoid disturbing students in a relaxed pose with my occasional scratchy throat) melted all over the bag. This was not the first incident, but definitely was the worst. I just couldn't salvage it. I was sad, because that bag was very helpful for carrying all my extra things to class, like cough drops, hair bands, backup CDs for my iPod, writings, notes, etc. As I was pulling the paper mache mess apart, I realized how I really didn't need all this extra stuff. I now have an older, handmade bag that has 1 small pocket for my iPod. That's it. I feel more streamlined when I walk into class now.

Both of these separate events happened without my conscious initiation, but because I was aware, I was able to see them for what they are: an opportunity to streamline, lighten up, and focus on what really matters. I hope your opportunities come along, too, and that they don't involve web sites or cough drops!

Namaste,
Lorien

What we are practicing now...
I love the pose that yoga teacher Kira Ryder has named Compassion of Christ pose. It's a beautiful shoulder stretch and a twist. It opens the heart, lung and pericardium meridian lines, which can become congested this time of year. Here is a wonderful video of her performing this pose. Enjoy!

Schedule updates and events... see Schedule for complete schedule...

Donation-Based Restorative Yoga at Soula Power Yoga in downtown San Jose on FRIDAY, March 5 7:00-8:30pm. Come to this relaxing class for gentle stretching and long, luxurious poses draped over props. All cash donations will be accepted ($15 suggested). For more info: www.soulapoweryoga.com
Coming soon... Yoga enCHANTing, a yoga and chanting workshop... stay tuned for details.

Stress, Health & Yoga

2010-02-01T09:48:00.000-08:00

It always surprises me when I meet someone who has not heard about the effects of stress on health... it shouldn't, but it still does. So, in case you or your loved ones haven't heard, here is the deal with stress: it's a necessary part of our existence. You need stress to grow and strengthen. When it becomes damaging to your health is when the stress is chronic. Here is a very simplified explanation.

Our bodies are amazing machines, and they are constantly taking in sensory input to determine how to operate. If it determines that there is some threat, your nervous system will initiate the "flight or fight" sequence of events. These events are automatic and will occur whether the threat is real (a car is about to hit you) or imagined (you have a nightmare). If our threats are simple and our responses are simple - get out or get ready to battle, then the responses use up the hormones, muscular contraction and other effects of the fight or flight reflex, so the end result is that our bodies return to normal mode. However, when the process is not completed - for example, you get yelled at by your boss, but it's not appropriate to fight or flee the situation, then the body does not return to normal and all those tensions and hormones are still around. If this happens chronically, then the body cannot fully restore itself to its normal healing modes. This is how chronic stress can open you up to disease.

There are many ways to reduce the effects of chronic stress. Yoga is a well-advertised form of stress-reduction, but not the only one out there. There are also many forms of yoga. Which one brings about your return to relaxation depends on your nervous system. When I first began yoga, I studied the Iyengar method, a very detailed system that taught me about the pulleys, levers, gears, pumps and valves of my body. I then moved into Vinyasa yoga, which taught me to move and breath and sweat the effects out of my system. As my levels of chronic stress reduced, I moved into more static forms of yoga: Yin and Restorative. These forms allow me to access the effects of my stress in very subtle ways and has brought me into my best form of relaxation: meditation.

Please share this information with anyone who doesn't understand the connection of stress and health. Be well.

What we are practicing now...

Parvritta trikonasana (revolved triangle pose) is one of those poses we all detest. But, like leafy greens, it is good for your health and worth making friends with. Click here for instructions on how to get into the pose. Remember to use a block under your hand if you cannot reach the floor while keeping your back flat.

Schedule updates and events... see www.yogabylorien.com for complete schedule:

Mondays Restorative Yoga at Soula Power Yoga in downtown San Jose will continue! This relaxing class meets each Monday night 7:00-8:30pm for gentle stretching and long, luxurious poses draped over props. For more info: www.soulapoweryoga.com
Sunday, February 7th, 1:00-2:00pm: introduction to yoga for the Willow Glen community. This FREE class is open to anyone new to yoga and will be held at Willow Glen Yoga. Send your friends along who are interested but reluctant to join the yoga craze!
Sunday, February 7th 2:45-3:15pm: introduction to restorative yoga for the downtown San Jose community. This FREE class is open to everyone and is part of Soula Power Yoga's open house to introduce their healing modalities to the community: acupuncture, Ayurveda, massage and Restorative Yoga. Come on down and check it out!
Coming soon... Yoga enCHANTing, a yoga and chanting workshop... stay tuned for details.

Time, Bread Dough and Yoga

2010-01-02T13:51:00.000-08:00

It is the beginning of a new decade, and I have been pondering Time. I've let go of the concept that time is linear; it must have been all the time-traveling books or movies I've experienced, or perhaps it's that I have lived long enough to recognize the connections and wonder about the near misses. I now see time as malleable, like bread dough. Every now and then, it gets folded in on itself and I'll witness the fruition of some long-lost decision, or fit some disparate concepts together, or happen to be in the correct location to "bump" into an old friend. My yoga practice isn't linear, either. This past year, I became a beginner again. I began to study again with my first yoga teacher, Denise Wendler, and experienced the newness of muscles, bones and philosophy through my current teacher, Tias Little. It made me curious again, just like I was over 10 years ago! It's made me want to go back and relearn everything again, but this time with less ego... and maybe that's the purpose of these folds in Time. What folds have you experienced, and what are they telling you?

What we are practicing now...

Virabhadrasana II (warrior II pose) is a wonderful pose to bring you fully into the present moment. I direct you to Yoga Journal to describe how to practice this pose, but consider this when you have arrived: your back arm is reaching into the past and your front arm is reaching into the future, but you and your breath are resting patiently in the present.

Schedule updates and events... see www.yogabylorien.com for complete schedule:

New class on Mondays! Restorative Yoga 7:00-8:30pm at Soula Power Yoga in downtown San Jose; relax and rejuvenate as you rest your body on props and release the effects of stress. Join us on Mondays in January (if the class is well attended, it may be added to the regular schedule).
Intro to Yoga 6-week series: An in-depth look at yoga breathing, postures and sequences. The next series begins January 14th and meets for 6 weeks on Thursdays at 7:45pm at Willow Glen Yoga. You must register for the entire series and attendance the first night is mandatory. Class fills up quickly!
Beginners 1-Day Workshop on January 30th: For those who are interested in a refresher or cannot commit to a 6 week series, this workshop will cover the basics in a condensed setting. Saturday, January 30th 1:00-4:00pm at Willow Glen Yoga. Class fills up quickly!

The Music of Yoga & Meditation

2009-12-01T00:01:00.000-08:00

I am often asked about the music I play in class. The soundtrack to the yoga experience is quite important to me, so I am very careful in my selections. I find that music can really help to calm an active mind or uplift a sluggish body, deepening the yoga or meditation experience. In general, I prefer music that does not have vocals, especially in a meditative practice. Sometimes, if the practice is more introspective, I will practice simply to the music of my breath, or the sound of ocean waves. The practices that are intended to uplift and move energy will have heavier beats and some singing - sometimes it will even be popular music (gasp!). Here are some favorite CDs that I recommend... just in time to put them on your holiday wish lists:

Shamanic Dream by Anugama: good "chill" instrumental for slow flow, yin/restorative or meditation
Anjali by Benjy Wertheimer & Michael Mandrell: good instrumental for slow flow, yin/restorative or meditation
House Made of Dawn by Coyote Oldman: beautiful wind instrumental good for yin/restorative or meditation
Shaman's Vision by David Gordon, Steve Gordon: mellow chanting and rhythmic beats good for slow flow, yin
Dakshina, The Essence, Moola Mantra all by Deva Premal: incredibly beautiful vocals good for uplifting flow, yin/restorative (this is the artist I am most asked about)
Drala by Drala: good instrumental for uplifting flow, yin/restorative
Bali Dua by Jalan Jalan: Eastern "chill" with a few dreamy vocals good for yin/restorative or meditation
Yoga Rhythm by Soulfood: mild vocals and rhythmic beats good for uplifting flow
Deja-Blues by Steven Halpern: hypnotic beats good for slow flow, yin/restorative

Meditation tool

So Hum is a mantra, a tool to help with meditation. It is an easy way to settle your mind to one thing, listening for the sounds that already exist in the breath. Begin by taking a meditation seat (see last month's blog) and start to breathe slowly and easily. On the inhale, gently hear the breath creating the sound "sooooo"; on the exhale, gently hear the breath creating the sound "hummmm". This tool anchors an active mind, giving it discipline and direction as a you would when training a puppy to heel. Detach your internal critic and have patience with your puppy mind. For more information about this mantra and others, please click here.

Schedule updates and events...

Saturday, December 5th 1:00-3:30pm Soothe Your Soul, a Therapeutic Workshop for ALL! Part restorative yoga, part gentle yoga, part meditation, this workshop is all about dissolving stress. Open to all levels and abilities and no previous yoga experience necessary. $40 pre-reg, $50 day of; register at Willow Glen Yoga. Consider this workshop a gift to yourself or a loved one. Register now, only a few spots left.

Why Meditation?

2009-11-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

I have been practicing and teaching yoga for over 10 years, but my meditation practice is still in its infancy. Nevertheless, I curl my legs under me, lengthen my spine and close my eyes each week to explore the meditation process. (I hesitate to use the verb, because "to meditate" doesn't seem like an action to me - I set the stage for meditation to occur and then sit back and watch... sometimes it occurs, sometimes not.) Why is meditation so important? It's an elusive practice, so why strive after something so challenging? Some people practice to achieve enlightenment, some to connect with their higher power. These are very noble reasons to practice, but they are not mine... at least, not at this stage in my meditation practice. My intentions are much more self-involved.

For me, meditation is therapy. It's work, it's confrontational, and it introduces you to yourself on whole new levels. The mind is reflective, and we are often so clouded by our surroundings that we do not "see" what is real, only the distorted reflection. Through meditation, we can recognize those illusions as well as the truth. Meditation improves focus, memory and creativity. A regular practice lowers stress levels, blood pressure, cholesterol and decreases substance abuse. It also improves relations, productivity, and self-concept. The challenge is that you need to keep at it, and you need to want to improve. If you are interested, one of my favorite teachers, Erich Schiffmann, gives meditation a whole section on his website: movingintostillness.com. Try it... and then try it again.

Meditation Seats

There are many different meditation positions, but the most important thing to remember is to be comfortable and alert. If you are too uncomfortable, you'll be distracted by it; if you are too relaxed, you'll fall asleep. Here are some different seated positions for meditation:

Chair: sit forward on the seat of a chair so that your back does not rest against anything, knees over your ankles, feet flat to the floor.

Seiza: come to all fours, place a block or cushion between your heels, then sit back on it. elevate your hips as high as you need to be comfortable.

Sidhasana: a cross-legged position where the heels are aligned in front of the groins; click here for a picture and instructions; elevating the hips on a folded blanket or cushion can help tight hips.

Half Lotus/Lotus: the classical meditation position, this pose requires some openness of the hips and a deep bend in the knees; click here for a picture and instructions (half lotus instructions are under Modifications); again, elevating the hips on a folded blanket or cushion can help tight hips.

Once you have your preferred seat, rest your weight into your seat, making your feet, shins, thighs, hips and buttocks heavy. Place your hands in your lap, lengthen your torso and melt your shoulders down your back. Lengthen the back of your neck so that your face tips down subtly and close your eyes. Let your chosen meditation process guide you from here, but come back to these steps anytime you find yourself slumping or drifting off.

Schedule updates and events... (see Lorien's schedule for all ongoing classes)

Saturday, December 5th 1:00-3:30pm Soothe Your Soul, a Therapeutic Workshop for ALL! Part restorative yoga, part gentle yoga, part meditation, this workshop is all about dissolving stress. Open to all levels and abilities and no previous yoga experience necessary. $40 pre-reg, $50 day of; register at Willow Glen Yoga. Consider this workshop a gift to yourself or a loved one.
Private therapeutic yoga sessions: this is a one-on-one 60-75-minute session with Lorien that includes some restorative yoga, guided imagery and breath work that is tailored to your needs. The first session is FREE, and subsequent sessions are $60-$80, depending on location and frequency. Please see Lorien's private yoga schedule to sign up for an introductory slot today!

Yoga Poison, Yoga Nectar... You Decide

2009-10-01T18:26:00.000-07:00

I recently had a conversation with another teacher as we were leaving a class we were both students in, and it made me think. I mentioned to him that I had trained and was teaching Therapeutic yoga, and he commented that all yoga is therapeutic. I agreed with him... to a point. There is a saying that one man's nectar can be another's poison. Those of you who have been in my classes know that not all poses are appropriate for all students, and the same is true for classes, teachers and entire schools of yoga. It is challenging to know which one is right for you, which is why I always recommend people try a class on and see if it "fits".

It's important to remember that subtle changes are happening during our practice. Sometimes, we need to be still and quiet in order to sense these subtleties, and sometimes we just need rest. For example, I can perform some of the more challenging postures that make me look like a member of Cirque du Soliel, but my personal practice leans more towards the yin or restorative to balance the rest of my life. The balance is how we make yoga a therapeutic

application, along with slowing down and listening.

So is all yoga therapeutic? Yes, no, and it depends is my answer... today's poison may be tomorrow's nectar.

What we are practicing now...

Resting Half Moon pose is a restorative pose that brings about some subtle changes to the spine's supporting muscles. It stretches the intercostal muscles (the muscles between the ribs) and the serratus posterior inferior and frees the diaphragm, benefiting respiration; lengthens the quadratus lumborum, freeing adhesions in this often tight muscle; creates a squeeze and soak for many internal organs, such as the stomach, liver, and kidneys. You will need one bolster and one or more blankets. To come into the pose:

Place your bolster with one or more blankets stacked on top to your right. Position the support perpendicular to the spine. Sitting on your right hip, use the left hand to ensure the right rib cage lengthens as you extend the torso up and over the support (if it feels too intense on the shoulder, check that your waist is on the bolster, not armpit). As you come deeper into the pose, slide the right hand out and along the floor straight above the head. Your head may rest on your right arm or a folded blanket.
Slide the left leg forward and the right leg back behind you to create a scissor shape. Or, just extend both legs straight, one resting on top of the other. Stretch your left arm over your head and bring the palms together, or clasp the left wrist with the right hand to deepen the stretch through the left side. Be here for 2-5 minutes.
To come out of the pose, place the left hand on top of the bolster. Bring the legs together with the knees bent. Using the strength of your arms slowly press up to a seated position. Change sides.

Schedule updates and events...

Saturday, October 17th, 1:00-3:15pm: Seva Workshop with Lorien & Debora Cohen at Willow Glen Yoga in San Jose. Join us for a vinyasa and yin yoga class, followed by guided meditation. All donations go towards Tina Tran's Seva challenge for humanitarian efforts in Uganda; please click here for more information. If you are not available for the workshop, but wish to donate towards her efforts, please go to Groundspring and select "Seva Challenge" and "Tina Tran". Thank you!
Saturday, October 4th, 3:00-4:30pm: Qi Gong with Larry Wong in Campbell. This is where I learn all those fun energy moving techniques. Come learn from my teacher. See the GGBC website for more information. Hope to see you there!

Connecting to the Source

2009-09-03T08:27:00.001-07:00

We humans are interesting creatures. We want things labeled, and quickly, so we can put it on a shelf and move on to the next thing. I notice this when I tell people I teach yoga; they reply to me with terms like "stretching" or "relaxation". To me, yoga is more than this. When I align my body, breathe and focus my mind, I am connecting to something bigger, some Source. I've heard the same description from people creating art, music, playing sports, and other examples of getting out of the cognitive part of the brain and into the instinctive part. All of these are yoga to me, because they are all joining us to our Source. So what do I teach? I teach the process of getting quiet, aligning, focusing and breathing so that we can connect to our Source. It's not a perfectly-defined label, which is okay with this human.

What we are practicing now...

Utthita Hasta Padangustasana (extended hand-to-big-toe pose), at the wall. I love the variation with the extended foot on the wall, pressing against it to ignite moola bandha. It's very supportive and grounding! See Yoga Journal's beginner's tip for more details.

Schedule updates...

New class for Adobe employees! Please help spread the word to your Adobe friends that we will begin a series on Sept 14, Mondays 5:30-6:30pm. Contact the Fitness Center for more details.
Yoga Retreat September 25-27: one room left. Sign up now for the Perfect Blend Yoga and Wine Weekend in Amador County.
Join us Wednesday morning for a 9:00-10:30 Hatha Flow class at Willow Glen Yoga; this intimate class covers the foundations of pranayama and bandha work that is not available in a fast moving flow class.

Coming up...

Fundraiser yin, yang and meditation class with Debora Parente-Cohen on October 17. Please see the flyer for more information.

My Dog, My Guru

2009-08-01T16:52:00.001-07:00

A guru is a being who leads one from the darkness of ignorance to the light of knowledge. Less than a year ago, our family adopted a dog. She was rescued, and comes with many challenges, but we fell in love with her almost immediately and she is now part of our family. Three different sources recommended the Cesar Millan ("The Dog Whisperer") style of dog ownership, using energy to assert respect and loyalty. We read his book, watched his TV show and I even went to his online resource. After ten months of working with this dog, I have learned so much from her! It is a meditation for me to walk my dog, as I am always noticing my own energy projection, the weight in my feet, the tension in my hands and my breath. Anytime I find myself straying from my meditation, she senses it and will attempt to take the leadership role from me. This is a great feedback experience for me. I also noticed what I was willing to tolerate in her behavior, and began to ask for the same from my family, friends and students. Working with her has really improved my inner strength and focus. She has helped me to learn so much more about myself... bringing me from the darkness of ignorance to the light of knowledge.

What we are practicing now...

Pasasana (the noose pose) is a wonderfully warming pose that massages the abdominal organs, stretches the ankles, calves, knees, hips, shoulders and torso. In class, we have been working with the wall as a prop to work towards the pose. See Yoga Journal's instructions for getting into the pose.

Schedule updates... ah, the impermanence...

Saturday, August 15th 10:00-11:30am Yoga Soup at Willow Glen Yoga in San Jose. Join me for a wonderful blend in active (vinyasa) and passive (somatics) techniques to unstick the body!
Thursday night 7:45 class at Willow Glen Yoga is now an Intro-to-Yoga series; no drop-ins allowed. For yin, please come Tuesday nights only.
Wednesday nights, 6:00-7:00pm at GGBC in Campbell in a yin class, which is followed by a meditation class. Come join us for clarity in body and mind!
Last Tuesday 10:00am yin class at Courtside in Los Gatos will be August 25.

Coming up...

New class for Adobe employees: beginning Monday, September 14, 5:30-6:30pm! Check with Jessica in the fitness center to sign up.
Fundraiser yoga class with Debora Parente-Cohen coming in October... more details soon!
As of this writing, I still have 1 room available for the Wine, Dine and Yoga Retreat September 25-27. Please let me know asap if you are interested!

Revisiting Freedom

2009-07-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Remember how you felt when you first got your driver's license? Liberty and limitless possibilities coursed through you, along with thoughts about driving across this vast country! Coming off a family road trip of my own, I revisited my own independence and thought about how our founding fathers must have felt once they declared the independence of an entire nation. Just like with us getting our license to drive, they found liberty and possibilities (along with a healthy dose of responsibility, as any driver knows). What does this all have to do with yoga? Well, we are "governed" in yoga by rules and limits... some are there for good reason, some are self-imposed, and some need a closer look. This summer, maybe you can find your own freedom within your yoga practice. Find what works for you, within the limits of your body. Explore different paths and trust your intuition. Celebrate your freedom!

What we are practicing now...

A great little yin pose that is truly powerful is Figure 4 against the wall. This is a wonderful pose that helps relieve back pain and opens up stiff hips. Being on your back will also help to reduce blood pressure, if practiced regularly over time.

To come into the pose, sit on the floor with your hips as close as possible to a wall; lower your side to the floor, so your torso is perpendicular to the wall, then roll onto your back and extend your legs. It's okay if you are not right up against the wall, especially if you have tight hamstrings. Take a few breaths in legs up the wall. when you are ready, cross your right ankle over your left thigh, flexing your foot so that you cannot see the bottom of it (your legs make an inverted "4" shape). Begin to bend your left leg, sliding your foot down the wall and bringing your right leg closer to you. Tighter hips: you'll feel this almost immediately, and your hips may rise off the floor - that's okay, as long as you're not straining; if you are, then move away from the wall more. Looser hips: you may need to take your right knee in hand and prop it up and away from you (towards the wall) in order to feel anything.

Once you are there, breathe. Be here for 2-5 minutes, breathing slowly and smoothly and softening the muscles so the connective tissues are taxed, rather than the muscles. When you are done, come back to legs up the wall pose and take a few breaths before moving on to the left side. Ahhhhh....

Schedule updates...

Lorien will be out of town July 18-28, but classes will continue with subs.

Starting Wednesday, July 1: Yin yoga at GGBC in Campbell, 6:00-7:00pm; drop in to this class and then stay for meditation! A perfect combination.

Coming up...

Beginning August 6, the Thursday evening Yin Yoga class will become an Intro-to-Yoga series.
Saturday, August 15: Yoga Soup at Willow Glen Yoga in San Jose, 10:00-11:30am.
Monday, August 17: Yin Yoga at Willow Glen Yoga in San Jose, 4:00-5:30pm.
Monday, August 17: Vinyasa Yoga at Willow Glen Yoga in San Jose, 6:00-7:30pm.

Soothing Pitta's Fire

2009-06-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

According to Ayurveda (an ancient health science), summer increases the fiery pitta characteristics. That can be good news for those of us who need some motivation to make changes. But if you are already someone whose constitution contains pitta, this may create an imbalance (To understand more and determine your dosha, please see Ayurveda infocenter). A pitta imbalance can make someone very quick to anger, impatient, self-critical, hostile, and can physically manifest in the skin (rashes, acne) and stomach (heartburn, ulcers). It's important that students with pitta constitutions practice yoga in a cooler environment, have fun with their poses and work at a reduced effort. In general, forward folds that soothe the nervous system calms the pitta imbalance, but practicing side bends and twists while focusing the breath in the back of the body will also help, as will emphasizing a longer exhale to release built up anger, frustration, stress, etc. It is the perfect season to explore new poses and methods of practicing. Yin yoga is also very appropriate for this time of the year. (Try the blended Yin & Yang class on Saturday, June 27 for something new and fun!)

What we are practicing now...
Kurmasana (tortoise pose) is a pose that opens the hips, back and shoulders, stimulates the thymus and abdominal organs, and soothes the nervous system. It is also a pose that develops pratyahara, or withdrawal/softening of the senses. Try it and notice how calm you feel after.

See Yoga Basics website for instructions on entering this pose. Enjoy!

Schedule updates...
Lorien will be on vacation June 12-25; classes will continue with subs. Join the following special classes in June:

Thursday, June 4 12:00-1:00pm: Power Yoga at Decathlon Club in Santa Clara
Saturday, June 27 10:00-11:30am: "Yin & Yang" Yoga Soup at Willow Glen Yoga in San Jose

Coming soon...
Beginning in July, the GGBC class will have a new night and format: Wednesdays 6:00-7:00pm, Yin Yoga at GGBC in Campbell, followed by a meditation class; see the GGBC website for more information... yin & meditation, a great combination for Wednesday nights, so come check it out!

The Authentic Sub

2009-05-01T15:53:00.000-07:00

One of the characteristics of a yoga teacher's life is that we often have to find subs for our classes. I have been on all 3 sides of this equation: the student's side, the permanent teacher's side and the substitute teacher's side. When I come in to teach someone else's class, I try to respect what the students have been learning, if possible. (Sometimes I get no information about their class, so I just go in and teach what I am called to teach.) Most times, I'll have a clue as to what the students expect, and I try to honor that. In the past 5 years of teaching, I've noticed that trying to please everyone ends up pleasing no one. So now, I walk a line between honoring the permanent teacher and staying true to what I am called to teach. That may mean that my upcoming stint as a power yoga sub does not include all the planks and chaturangas (yogic push ups) that the students are used to... but it will feel more energetically sound than if I were to try for something that doesn't fit me. Who knows, maybe they will appreciate a difference? One of my very favorite teachers is Marti Foster. I experienced Marti as a student when she came to sub a class I was taking. Her style is unique, and certainly contrasted the permanent teacher's, and I loved it! Yoga resonates differently for everyone, but I know I have to stay within my frequency, even as a sub.

What we are practicing now...
Vasisthasana (side plank) is a heat-building pose that requires healthy wrists and shoulders and a strong core. If you are not quite there yet, please see the modifications below.

To come in to the pose, take plank pose (the top part of a push-up). Feel a slight round through your upper back as you support your shoulders, and do not arch your lower back. Bring your right hand directly under your face, spreading your fingers wide. Roll onto the outside edge of your right foot (keep your legs straight), and stack your ankles. Lift your hips slightly and draw your inner thighs together and up. Extend your left arm up and feel your wrists stacking. Breathe here, then release back to plank for the other side. Rest your wrists when you have completed both sides.

For more challenge, take Vasisthasana as described above. Begin to lift the top, unanchored leg off the other leg. Go slowly as you would any balancing pose. If it feels good, begin to bend that leg (like a tree pose), possibly taking hold of the big toe with the up-stretched hand and extending both into the air. Breathe here and come out with control. Repeat on the other side.

Modifications for this pose depend on the area of weakness. If the core is not yet strong enough, come into half circle pose (see reverse gate pose on this asana page) and work on lifting that back leg a little. If the wrists are compromised, try the plank and side plank on the forearms instead.

Schedule updates...
Lorien will be teaching the following special classes in May:

Thursday, May 7 12:00-1:00pm: Power Yoga at Decathlon Club in Santa Clara
Saturday, May 9 10:00-11:30am: Yoga Soup at Willow Glen Yoga in San Jose
Tuesday, May 26 10:00-11:15am: Yin Yoga at Courtside Club in Los Gatos; this is a new permanent class for the schedule!

6 weeks = 5,000 years

2009-04-01T12:36:00.000-07:00

I am very honored and excited to be teaching an Introduction-to-Yoga series again for Willow Glen Yoga. I really enjoy teaching beginners the basics of yoga, from the poses to the breathing to the more esoteric aspects. It does come with its challenges, though. Recent evidence dates the yoga practice back to 5,000 years ago! This "fad" has certainly stood the test of time. My job is to boil those years down to what is relevant today and what the average beginner will be able to grasp within 6 weeks. This challenge is another aspect of my teaching that I enjoy, as it uses all my skills!

So if you would like to learn the basics, or know someone who does, tell them about my 6-week series beginning Wednesday, April 1 at 7:45 pm at Willow Glen Yoga. There is still space available, and I promise I'll keep the history to a minimum! Sign up online at willowglenyoga.com.

What we are practicing now...
Pincha Mayurasana (forearm balance) is a great inversion for this season. It builds heat and focuses energy in the upper body where congestion may be trying amass. I really like the video instruction on Yoga Mates, including the instruction to NOT do the full pose! Watch it first before trying, as you will be upside down. Be sure to rest and stretch your neck and shoulders after completing your version of the pose.

Schedule updates...
Lorien will be on vacation April 13-18, and classes will continue with subs; here are some other times you can catch Lorien around the Bay Area:

Sunday, April 5, 4:00-5:30pm: Hip Openers & Restorative practice at Courtside Club in Los Gatos.
Tuesday, April 7 10:00-11:15am: Yin yoga at Courtside Club in Los Gatos.
Wednesday, April 8 6:00-7:30pm: Yoga Basics at Willow Glen Yoga in San Jose.
Saturday, April 25 10:00-11:30am: Yoga Basics at GGBC in Campbell.

Silence is Golden, Duct Tape is Silver...

2009-03-01T17:10:00.000-08:00

... 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.

Yoga by Lorien Podcasts

2009-02-14T09:53:00.000-08:00

These podcasts are meant to be supplementary to your ongoing practice. I strongly recommend gaining a foundation in yoga poses and breathing with a live teacher first. Enjoy these podcasts by: 1) clicking the icon and listening from here, or 2) downloading the source file to your iPod or MP3 player from Ourmedia.

90-minute Wellness Yoga class; includes legs up the wall variations, somatic work and restorative poses; recorded on June 14, 2011

23-minute discussion, meditation and breathing exercise recorded in Yoga as Cancer Support Workshop on April 23, 2011

90-minute Hatha Yoga class recorded on March 10, 2011

60-minute Yin Yoga class recorded on March 2, 2011

75-minute Yin Yoga class recorded on February 12, 2009
Class opens with Child's pose, Dragons, toe squat, Frog, prone shoulder opener/twist, Swan, Sphinx/Seal or Saddle, Dragonfly, twists onto bolster.

75-minute Yin & Yang Yoga class recorded on November 10, 2008
Class includes an opening joint warm-up, Yin poses include: Half Butterfly, Sunbathing Frog and Cross-legged fold, Dangling, Caterpillar; yang flow includes Tiger stretch, lunges, Down Dog, Cat bows (push ups w/ leg ext), Warrior 1 bows, a moving balance flow and Uddiyana Bandha Kriya.

20-minute Seated Yoga class recorded on September 23, 2008
Class includes mindful breathing and stretches in chair, designed for desk-bound students.

60-minute Hatha Flow class recorded on August 21, 2008
Class includes an opening and closing mindful breathing excercise, hip openers, balance poses, and culminates in the splits pose, or hanumanasana.

90-minute Yoga Basics class recorded on August 6, 2008
Class is built for beginners, and culminates in the wide straddle sit pose, or upavistha konasana.

60-minute Yin class recorded on August 1, 2008
Class includes a standing opening sequence, Dangling, Squat, Half Frog, Butterfly, Swan, Twists, Toe/Ankle stretches, Half Saddle.

60-minute Hatha Flow class recorded on July 31, 2008
Class includes a standing opening sequence, forward folds, balance flow, chair twists and bridge pose.

Engineering & Yoga: A Smooth Ride for All

2009-02-01T10:53:00.000-08:00

Whenever people find out that my previous incarnation was as a mechanical engineer for Lockheed Martin, I inevitably get the question: isn't that a huge change to go from being an engineer to teaching yoga? The answer is yes and no. The obvious differences are there: environment, hours, management, etc. The similarities are not always as apparent, but they are there. You begin to notice them as your train your mind and body, working as an engineer to construct a stable structure with proper ventilation. And at the heart of yoga teaching are the concepts of duhkha, usually translated as meaning suffering, and sukha, usually translated as meaning ease. A literal translation of sukha brings us "good space", referring to the term used to describe the correct construction and alignment of a wagon wheel to its axis; a bad alignment creates duhkha, "bad space", or a ride filled with suffering; a correct alignment creates sukha, "good space", or a ride that is smooth. That is an engineering concept, right at the heart of yoga! So, the next time you practice, think like an engineer of your self: create a smooth ride... good space... sukha. Namaste!

What we are practicing now...

Urdhva Dhanurasana (upward bow or wheel pose) is an amazing pose to counteract the "Silicon Valley Slump" as it stretches the chest, shoulders and hips. It requires both strength and flexibility. The arms need to be able to extend overhead while rotating the elbows parallel to each other - no easy feet for a desk jockey! Stretching open the chest and strengthening the triceps and latissimus dorsi muscles achieve the arm position; opening the front of the hips while inwardly rotating the legs and firming the lower abdominal muscles achieve the leg position. A great preparation for this pose is Bridge. To come in to this rewarding but challenging pose, go through the steps outlined in Yoga Journal. There are lots of ways to use props and partners to experience the elements of the pose, but don't be in a hurry. Work with the steps slowly and only lift when you feel ready! Be sure to counter pose by bringing your knees to chest or chest to knees. Enjoy!

Schedule updates...

No updates for now. See my website for a complete schedule, as well as podcasts for home practice.

Resolution, Intention & Bhavana

2009-01-01T09:34:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! Like many people, I use the turn of the year as an opportunity to reflect and learn. I no longer make "resolutions", because I've found that my brain does not accept easily the restrictions associated with resolving to do or not do something; in short, I rebel against my own mind! Some years ago, I began setting "intentions" for the new year. These intentions were a softer approach to improving myself over the next 12 months, but I found them to be too soft, too vague or too unrealistic.

What I've now found is the concept of "bhavana". A bhavana is a vision that furthers one's self and others - exactly what I was trying to achieve with my resolutions and intentions, without the negative or ambiguous connotations. A bhavana has 3 elements; it is:

A positive expression of what I want to happen, rather than the absence of a negative; i.e., "speaking compassionately to my kids", vs. "not yelling at my kids".
Concrete and clear, without vague concepts; this was where my intentions always went wrong, because "peace on Earth" was really hard to visualize.
Specific and focused on an actual image or idea; I like to use the concept of taking a snapshot of what my bhavana would look like, bringing the picture into focus and cropping it to its most relevant parts.

This year, try creating a bhavana for yourself, remembering to make it positive, concrete and specific.

Monthly Pose

Virabhadrasana I (Warrior I pose)
The warrior poses are often mistaken by newcomers to yoga; how can a warrior, a symbol of war be a part of something so peaceful? The answer is that the warrior represents the fight against ignorance or misperception. We need this aspect to cut through our veils so we can see truth, and because we live in the world, we need to continue to cut through those veils constantly.

See Yoga Journal's website to learn the steps to come into the pose, as well as modification and benefits. During the winter months, it's good to focus to the downward energy of the hips, legs and feet, and let your heat build!

Schedule & Event Updates

See my website for complete schedule; below is a summary of the changes beginning January 5th.

Mondays: no more 4pm Yin Yoga class
Wednesdays: NEW 9am Hatha Flow class at Willow Glen Yoga
Thursdays: 7:45pm class is now a YIN YOGA class!

JANUARY WORKSHOP: Intro to Flow Workshop on Saturday, January 24th 1:30-4:00pm at Decathlon Club in Santa Clara. The perfect workshop to start or restart your dynamic yoga practice, you'll learn breath, poses and flows that are found in any flow yoga class, as well as the best ways to modify for your specific needs! $35 for members and $45 for guests (includes a day pass to the club), pre-registration required. For more information or to sign up, please contact Amy Chang at (408) 738-2582, ext. 150, or yoga@decathlon-club.com.

I Bow to You

2008-12-01T14:43:00.000-08:00

This is the time of year that my mind gravitates toward celebration and tradition. This month, we'll see the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year and the origin of many of our modern celebrations. The waning light enables us to contemplate more as we direct our thoughts and energy more inward. To me, the underlying theme for all the different traditions is taking time to reflect on what matters. That reflection can be in the form of a family gathering, gift-giving, lighting candles, prayer, meditation... anything that allows us to pause in our daily lives and see the bigger picture. We also see this pause in our yoga classes, when we bow at the end and repeat the word "namaste". Literally, namaste means "I bow to you" and is usually said with palms pressed together at the center of the chest and the head bowed. The physical gestures represent a respect of the heart's wisdom, and an acknowledgment that we are all connected. Performing namaste with conscious intention is a quick but significant celebration that we can all share, no matter our religion, politics, geography or social-economic situation!

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Enjoy your chosen celebration and thank you for your continued support and attention. I bow to you. Namaste, Lorien

Monthly Pose
Parivrtta Trikonasana (Crossed Triangle posture, original variation)

Most of us were taught this pose as part of our physical education in school; I remember them as "windmills", and they were done quite fast. Rather than go quickly, move slowly into the pose, pause and breath as you explore the movement of your spine, then come out with control and a strong back.

To come into the pose:
1) Stand with your feet wide apart, 3.5-4 feet. Turn your feet so the outside edges are parallel. Imagine a pulley system in your legs - running down the outside of your legs and running up the inside of your legs. In this way, keep your arches from falling and activate your inner thighs. Be aware of over-straightening your knees and put a very small bend in them.
2) Open your arms wide and lengthen through the crown of your head, stretching your body in all 5 directions. (As you fold, remember to keep this length through your torso.)
3) Twist at your waist and bend so that your right hand comes towards your left foot. Try not to twist your hips. If you cannot easily reach the floor, place your hand on your shin or a block; if you can easily reach the floor, try bringing your palm to the outside of your foot. Lengthen the crown of your head and try to look up at your left arm. Breathe here for 5-10 conscious breaths. Remember to energize your legs, especially the inside line.
4) To come out, engage your legs strongly, lengthen your spine and unwind. Lift slowly with a flat back and come back to standing. If you have low blood pressure, or if you notice a dizzy feeling when you rise, pause halfway and be sure to exhale as you come the rest of the way up. Repeat on the other side.

This pose strengthens the back muscles and stretches the hamstrings; it also encourages energy to move downward (apana), while energizing the intestines. This will keep your digestive fire active through the holiday seasons!

Schedule Updates
See website for complete schedule: www.yogabylorien.com

~ SPECIAL CLASSES IN DECEMBER: Foundation Yoga on Thursday, December 18th 9:00-10:30am and Yoga Basics on Sunday, December 21st 10:00-11:30am; both classes are at Willow Glen Yoga.
~ NEW CLASS FOR JANUARY: Hatha Flow Wednesday mornings 9:00-10:30am at Willow Glen Yoga begins January 7th; come explore the breath, bandhas, meditation and asana in a warm, dynamic practice - a perfect place to relieve the winter blahs and bring a smile to your face!
~ JANUARY WORKSHOP: Intro to Flow Workshop on Saturday, January 24th 1:30-4:00pm at Decathlon Club in Santa Clara. The perfect workshop to start or restart your dynamic yoga practice, you'll learn breath, poses and flows that are found in any flow yoga class, as well as the best ways to modify for your specific needs!

Yoga & Awareness

2008-11-01T09:40:00.000-07:00

Dearest yogis and yoginis,
This month I'd like to discuss "awareness". We cultivate awareness in our yoga practice with the simple act of breathing consciously, and I hope that awareness doesn't end with your yoga class. It's important to remain connected to what is happening inside us as well as around us: the obvious things like driving habits may save lives; the subtle things like recycling may impact our species' time on this planet. There are a group of yogis who toured across Europe, carrying with them all the trash they created, trying not to exceed what they can fit into one backpack (you can read more about their experience here). What a wonderful exercise on awareness! There are many ways to become awakened to what's around us. I hope you take some time in the coming holiday months to find a way to connect and stay aware - whether through yoga or your trash!

Namaste,
Lorien

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MONTHLY POSE
Pawanmuktasana Series (Joint Freeing Series)

I've attached a file that depicts some great movements and stretches for the joints; these are recommended for students with various ailments such as: arthritis, bursitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, headaches, lymphedema, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease. Even if you don't suffer from these disorders, the series is a wonderful way to keep the joints supple during the cool months of fall and winter!

Riding the Vata wave...

2008-10-01T09:37:00.000-07:00

Dearest yogis and yoginis,

I had something completely different written up for this month's newsletter, but when I tuned in to the frenetic energy these past few weeks, I realized I needed to address it, instead. For those of you who came to the fall yoga workshop last month, this will be a bit of a repeat, because our society is definitely experiencing the swirling change of vata energy!

For some of you, our country's economic state may be very destabilizing for you, and you may be experiencing some feelings of betrayal, uncertainty or insecurity. This is a good time to get into your body and move some of that energy out. Do slow, consistent exercises and stretches with a steady breath. Connect with your heart beat, the earth, your breath, and the pauses between your breaths. Find a routine and stick to it. Avoid over-scheduling, rushing, loud noises and depleting your energy reserves.

If you are looking for options to keep to your budget, I have several for you. First, the Monday evening yin and yang class in Campbell is a donation-based class, so feel free to drop in and pay what you can... even if that's a karmic transaction! Second, Willow Glen Yoga offers work exchange options for a variety of jobs, so if you're looking to come to any of their classes in exchange for some time, check out their website for more details. Lastly, if you absolutely cannot make it to class, please see my website for podcasts of classes, including one for those of you stuck at a desk all day long. These podcasts are a great way to supplement/substitute your practice until you can rejoin a class. To find my podcasts, go to www.yogabylorien.com, click on Join a Class, then click on the Podcasts link.

Keep practicing, especially when you don't think you have the time or money - that's when you need it the most!

Namaste,
Lorien

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MONTHLY POSE
Anahatasana (heart melting pose)

This pose, affectionately called by some students the "butt in the air pose", is a wonderful release for the back, especially the sacrum. I like the restorative version, where you place a bolster (or 2, if you're more flexible in your back) under your hips and a folded blanket under your chest, allowing your head to "hang" off the blanket to relieve any compression, if it arises, in your neck. You can stay here for up to 5 minutes, turning your head halfway through the pose. Here's a picture of me in the restorative pose:

For a more active version of the pose, check out yinyoga.com. This is a big chest opener! Remember to pad under your knees and only hold the pose as long as your neck feels comfortable.

Moving into Fall

2008-09-01T09:35:00.000-07:00

Dearest yogis and yoginis,

I am sending this newsletter out a bit early this month, because I wanted to give you ample notice about this Labor Day weekend's classes (see below). I hope to see you in one of the three I will be teaching. Also, there are two new podcasts available for you to practice with: You can listen to the files from my website (go to yogabylorien.com, click Join a class, then click Podcasts), or download the files from Ourmedia. It's important that we reconnect with our practices this time of year, to really solidify our routines as life becomes more hectic. It will serve you into the holiday, too. For more information on how our practice changes in fall, and to set up for a natural state of meditation, come to the Fall Yoga Workshop on Sept 13.

Namaste,
Lorien

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MONTHLY POSE
Supta Padangusthasana (reclining big toe pose)
I chose this pose for its grounding elements, so try to find a sense of stability within the pose. It is also a great pose to shake off fatigue at the end of the day!
Click here for pictures, variations and instruction.

Yoga Podcasts!

2008-08-01T09:32:00.000-07:00

Dearest yogis and yoginis,

Well, I am happy to announce that my experiment with podcasts is a success so far! I've recorded 2 different classes and uploaded them to Ourmedia.org. You can listen to the files from my website (go to yogabylorien.com, click Join a class, then click Podcasts), or download the files from Ourmedia. As I state on my website, these are meant to be supplementary to your ongoing practice. I do strongly recommend gaining a good foundation in yoga from a live teacher before trying the classes. I plan to upload a new class each month and will try to present a nice variety of classes for you. Feedback is welcome, but please remember that I am new to the whole podcasting process, so translating any "tech-speak" into layman's terms is appreciated. Enjoy!

Namaste,
Lorien

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MONTHLY POSE
Marichiyasana (pose dedicated to the sage, Marichi)
This is a wonderful seated pose that has several variations, all focused on stretching the legs and hips and massaging the abdominal organs. Click here for pictures, variations and instruction.

My Foster Hair

2008-07-01T09:30:00.000-07:00

Dearest yogis and yoginis,

Happy summer! Those of you who have seen me recently know that I cut my hair short. I didn't cut it because of the season; I donated my hair to an organization called Locks of Love, a non-profit group that provides hairpieces to children suffering from long-term medical hair loss. My daughter's teacher presented the idea to the class at the beginning of the school year, and we did it together. It was an interesting journey for me. I didn't think much about it until the time grew closer, and my hair was at a length that I really enjoyed. I never resented committing to the project, but did feel some conflict as I thought, "why can't I keep it this length always?" Then, I began to realize my mistake: hair grows - my hair, especially... I could never keep it the same length, because it's always changing. I began to detach from my hair, thinking of it as "foster" hair, and nurtured it for someone else. What a rewarding lesson! Rather than clinging to something that was bound to cause me unhappiness, I let it go for someone else to use. It made me want to repeat the process - to cling to the process, even! This is the work for me. I hope you find a rewarding way to let something go this summer.

Namaste,
Lorien

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MONTHLY POSE
Upavistha Konasana (Wide-Angle Seated Forward Bend pose)
To come into the pose, sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Lean your torson back a bit, and press your hands into the floor to open the legs wide. Ground your SITS bones down (if you are stuck rolling onto your tailbone, elevate the hips as described below). You knees and toes should face up. Raise your chest up and out to bend forward, keeping the knees and toes facing up and your back long. Find your limit and either rest on your hands, elbows, a bolster or the floor. Once you've found your edge, back off a bit and soften the joints - ankles, knees, hips, back, shoulders, neck and jaw. Breathe here for 1-5 minutes, supporting your torso with your hands as you come out. Be sure to rotate your ankles, bend your knees and rotate your hips to relieve any tension. Here is the Yoga Journal's picture of the pose.
Variations:
If the hips are tight, elevate them with a folded blanket or cushion.
If the hamstrings are tight (you feel an excessive pull at the back of your knees), bend your knees and put a towel or blanket roll underneath, or place your feet flat on the floor.
If you don't feel yourself descending very far, put a chair in front of you and rest your arms and head on the seat of the chair. Here is a picture of that variation.
Benefits:
This pose opens the hips, groin, back and inside of the legs, massages the reproductive organs, stimulates the ovaries, calms the brain, relieves sciatica and arthritis in the hips.

Breathe to Balance Energy

2008-06-01T09:27:00.000-07:00

Dearest yogis and yoginis,

As I write this, I am gazing out at a beautiful blue sky, with my heater full-blast on my feet; this is a sure sign that we are into the transition of Spring to Summer! It's important during this time that you be aware of your energy, as it may change as quickly as the weather. A simple way to balance energy is to sit comfortably and just breathe deeply for a few minutes, with eyes closed, and assess how you feel: if you are feeling sleepy or heavy, raise your hand to close the left nostril and breathe through the right for a few minutes; if you are feeling impatient or ungrounded, raise your hand to close the right nostril and breathe through the left for a few minutes. Repeat this practice as often as you need to during the day to feel balanced - especially before bedtime!

Namaste,
Lorien

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MONTHLY POSE
An inversion this time of year is great, but again, you want your practice to balance energy. So, I'll give you a choice between two very different inversions: Dolphin and Legs Up a Wall.
Dolphin should be practiced early in the day, when you are feeling sleepy or heavy. Here is a nice video to demonstrate how to get into Dolphin. Stretch your neck out after, if it feels stiff.
Legs Up a Wall can be practiced any time of the day, but should be taken when you are feeling impatient, agitated or ungrounded. Pictures and instructions on getting into the pose.

Staying Calm

2008-05-01T09:26:00.000-07:00

Dearest yogis and yoginis,

A student approached me after class today and asked me to help her with a practice to stay calm during the frustrating, agitating times that life presents us. We discussed breathing techniques, visualization and methods to keep compassionate in the face of adversity. I realized after this conversation, that this is at the heart of yoga for me: relationships. The underlying intention of all my practices is to relate better. It's what keeps me coming back to my mat after 9 years, and I feel blessed when my students recognize yoga as more than an incredible physically healing tool. I learn so much from you all, and I am so grateful! Thank you. So, the next time you find yourself in a frustrating, defensive or distracted state, take a breath, exhale completely and hold the exhale out for a bit... It all begins with the breath, the end is nowhere in sight, but the journey is the nectar!

Namaste,
Lorien

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MONTHLY POSE
Marichyasana, or Sage Twist, is a wonderful pose to support digestion and a healthy spine. Please refer to Erich Schiffmann's website for instructions on getting into the pose.

Change is Bustin' Out All Over...

2008-04-01T09:23:00.000-07:00

Dearest yogis and yoginis,

Well, if Winter was the time for contemplation, Spring is certainly the time for agitation! Change is definitely on the wind, which can be difficult. I was struck by this thought last week when my family visited Washington, DC and viewed the Declaration of Independence (along with lots of other interesting things!). The men who signed their names to that document knew that if the change they were attempting to make failed, it would cost them their lives. But as difficult, painful and risky that change might be, they knew it had to be made. I wondered how our founding fathers dealt with the stress, and what we can learn from them today... maybe that the notion that change is inevitable, necessary and sometimes risky, but as Anais Nin said: "And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom." I hope your Spring changes are for the better. As for personal changes, I've migrated to a Mac computer after my PC died. I lost a lot of data, most of it reproducible, but it brought home this idea of impermanence and the need to accept the changes life brings. So, be patient with me as I learn a new system and recreate my data. It's all part of an ever-changing process!

Namaste,
Lorien

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MONTHLY POSE
Shalambasana, or Locust pose, is a wonderful pose for Spring. Please refer to Erich Schiffmann's website for instructions on getting into the pose.

Spring Yoga

2008-03-01T09:20:00.000-08:00

Dearest yogis and yoginis,

My favorite time of year is here: Spring! Not only does March mark the births of both my children, but it also contains the Vernal Equinox (day an night are the same length) and Easter. So, in our house, there are lots of reasons to celebrate and enjoy this month! I hope you will join me the day before Easter to practice yoga and chanting in order to joyfully clear away congestion in the body and spirit… if you are not able, please make time to sing, shout or simply speak joyfully what is in your heart. Think of it as a Spring cleaning for the soul!

Namaste,
Lorien

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MONTHLY POSE & SEASONAL TIP:

Yoga & the "Not Knowing" Mind

2008-02-01T09:17:00.000-08:00

Dearest yogis and yoginis,

I was fortunate to attend this year’s Yoga Journal conference in San Francisco, where I enrolled in their teacher’s continuing education track and listened to master teachers and scholars. While much of the information was a repetition of something I had learned before, it was wonderful to revisit it with fresh eyes. In fact, one of the presenters was Frank Jude Boccio, who talked to us about using the Buddha’s teachings to make yoga practice a moving meditation; what resonated with me was his explaining that if we approach our practice as if for the first time (he called it using the “not knowing” mind), we will continue learning more about ourselves in each practice… Taking that same approach to our other relationships and we will be constantly surprised and curious about our partners and loved ones. What a wonderful way to be! I hope it inspires you as much as it did me. If you are interested, here is Frank’s website: www.mindfulnessyoga.net.

Namaste,
Lorien

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MONTHLY POSE & SEASONAL TIPS:

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T08:59:00.000-08:00

Dearest yogis and yoginis,

Happy New Year! I hope you enjoyed your holidays and survived the wild storms with ease. I had hoped to have a yoga calendar available for you all to buy, but I got a late start on it, so it just didn’t happen last year. I will be sending you along the information that I gathered for the calendar, however, for you to use. The picture attached to each month’s e-newsletter will have the pose and seasonal tips. I hope they are of use to you and that you enjoy them!
Namaste,
Lorien

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MONTHLY POSE & SEASONAL TIPS:

Lesson of the Hurricane Yogis

2005-07-17T11:52:00.000-07:00

Many times, I’ve heard yoga teachers speak of being the “eye of the storm”, achieving inner calm in the face of adversity. This summer in Mexico our yoga retreat group faced hurricane Emily with strength and serenity, thanks to our yoga practice.

Perhaps my judgment was clouded by my need for the retreat; as a mother of two and a yoga instructor, I was desperate to receive some nurturing myself. I felt sure some rain would be the worst we’d encounter. But weather reports said the storm was headed directly toward our Tulum resort. The night the hurricane was to hit, we were rerouted to a hurricane-proof Cancun hotel. We were still hopeful this was only a temporary setback, and that we would be sipping tropical drinks by the turquoise waters of Tulum within a day or so. We were trained in yoga, and were ready to receive anything... right?

Our "refugio anticiclon" roughly resembled a three-story cinderblock prison; a resemblance enhanced when the power and water went out shortly after 7 pm. This was my low point; I desperately clung to the idea that this was only temporary, but could feel myself sliding into a somewhat familiar pool of negativity. And then, an amazing thing happened.

We all began sharing what little we had; candles, flashlights, laptop-provided music, and yoga. We came together to eat, drink, entertain, comfort and heal, even though some of us had never met. We stayed awake as long as we could, listening to the rain and wind. It felt like a scene from The Three Little Pigs, with a wolf named Emily huffing and puffing outside. At the worst of it, I laid flat on my back and breathed deeply into my belly, trying to keep my imagination in check.

The hotel withstood 70-80 miles per hour winds, with some damage to the outside of the building. Tulum received the brunt of the storm, including 160 miles per hour winds! Unlike many tourists, sheltered in less-hurricane-proof structures with hundreds of strangers, we were privileged to have the hotel almost entirely to ourselves. We contacted the Tulum resort, which estimated a week to restore power, water and clean up. In the meantime, a seasoned traveler in our group suggested we travel to Chichen Itza to visit the famous Mayan ruins. Moving inland was a wise choice; all the coastal towns were without power and water. We piled ourselves, and our luggage, into a rented mini-van for the two-hour trip. Although it was cramped and uncomfortable, no one complained. We joked how blessed we were that three people had cancelled their retreat plans, as they wouldn’t have fit!

We recharged at Chichen Itza, appreciating all the wonderful little things; power, running water, air conditioning, good food and a space for yoga (albeit one shared with the local insect population). Both the instructor and I led classes during our three days there, and our group found a rhythm. Still, we longed for the beach and our original plans. We packed up the mini-van and headed back to Playa del Carmen. We were light-hearted, and our hopes were high.

As we neared the beach town, we were again reminded of how fortunate we were. Signs of the hurricane’s wrath were everywhere; fallen power poles, broken windows and doors, thinned thatched roofs, and streets strewn with debris. We quickly claimed our hotel’s roof as our very own yoga studio. As I practiced, now without the company of mosquitoes and with a cool breeze, I felt my energy come back and my anxiety subside.

The relief was only temporary. The next morning the skies opened up and poured two inches of water onto our rooftop “studio”! Of course, this happened on my morning to teach. I was again impressed at the undaunted attitude of these yogis. Some collected towels or changed into bathing suits; others swept the flooded areas free of water and debris. It seemed no accident that these eight people were here together, being together.

My morning’s teaching plans distilled down to one thought: Sun Salutation. As we moved through the poses, I silently prayed to Surya to return to us, or to at least delay the rain long enough for us to practice. The rain did abate for much of our practice, but returned with more force as the students rested in Savasana. What else was there to do? I guided the group through a “laughing Savasana”; I asked them to picture some funny moments from our trip. Playing charades by flashlight, stuffing an undersized mini-van with bodies and baggage in the pouring rain, chasing caterpillars away from our mats... It had the desired effect. We giggled and washed away our tensions.

That afternoon, we traded rain on the rooftop for the sound of a jackhammer at our new space. As our teacher shouted brief instructions over the din, the lesson of this trip came through to me, loud and clear. This is the yoga of life! Most people practice being the eye of the storm in the calm space of a yoga studio, but it can be very difficult to find that same inner peace in life, with all its noisy, damp, itchy distractions. In that moment, we hurricane yogis did.