I was really tired when I came back from London this morning. The trains had been delayed (no change there) and it was getting on for 9.30am when I came back, so I'm afraid I didn't go for a run and jumped straight into the 'Gentle' DVD. I felt quite tight and not particularly warm, so the first part felt a bit awkward. Slowly though, my body started to open and ease and it really is just a great hour of stretching the whole body. There's a lovely arm movement in triangle pose which really highlights the tight areas. I will definitely try to run before doing this again as I think I'll benefit much more from having warm muscles.
I wanted to go for a run later on but was busy working and then just ran out of time - I'm about to head to another client this evening. So I had a bit of a jump about on my rebounder - something that was recommended by a participant at one of our running workshops but from which I haven't had much use yet. It's quite handy to get the circulation going if you just need a break from the pc for ten minutes. Apparently they use rebounders with astronauts when they return from space with wasted muscles. Generally, I'd rather get outside if I can but it's definitely a useful tool to have (if you can find the space - ours is propped up in the kitchen and does get in the way!).
I am seeing my London client early again tomorrow and have 'Yin' on the schedule, so hopefully I'll be feeling more energetic and can run first. Perhaps I'm having withdrawal symptoms from dairy!
Right, off I go back in the car. Hoping the roads are quieter as they usually thin out a bit during school holidays. Avocado salad when I get back and an early night!
Tuesday 30 July 2013
Monday 29 July 2013
Day 33 - Almost vegan
Strange to be doing Mountain Pose on a Monday. Did it this evening and it felt quite nice knowing that I could chill out afterwards. It made me so tired!
Slight problem in that I went swimming this afternoon and due to my reaction to chlorine, I was unable to do the Pranayama section because I still can't breathe through my left nostril. Unless I swim frequently and get used to the chlorine, it really messes me up. So I did one set of the breathing and moved onto the meditation. As I get close to the end of the first phase of the programme, this is one of the things I know I need to improve on. It's so easy to get caught up in the physical challenges and bypass the mental ones because they are, in fact, harder. I think I did more meditation at the beginning of the programme and it's tailed off somewhat so I need to really focus on this during phase two.
Today was also the beginning of my three day 'Vegan lifestyle'. I more or less followed it: I had almond milk on my breakfast (banana, apples, almonds, cashews) instead of yoghurt. I skipped the usual sprinkling of cheese over my salad this evening and used cider vinegar as a dressing instead of salad cream. I'm afraid I did have two coffees with cream in them (I tried coffee with almond milk and it was disgusting!). I expect I'll have more or less the same tomorrow and Wednesday - my diet is fairly simple anyway.
I get to try a new DVD tomorrow: 'Gentle'. I'm assuming this is along the same lines as 'Yin', i.e. relaxing and not too physically challenging. I'm going into London early so will probably run when I come back and then do Gentle.
Lots of photos posted yesterday of some of the group in fantastic poses. It appears that there is a headstand in the 'Balance' DVD. I can do headstands but not with my arms in the correct 'yoga' position so I'm a bit anxious about trying that! Balance is on Friday so I'll try and watch it through before then.
Well, up at 5am tomorrow so bed time for me! Goodnight!
Slight problem in that I went swimming this afternoon and due to my reaction to chlorine, I was unable to do the Pranayama section because I still can't breathe through my left nostril. Unless I swim frequently and get used to the chlorine, it really messes me up. So I did one set of the breathing and moved onto the meditation. As I get close to the end of the first phase of the programme, this is one of the things I know I need to improve on. It's so easy to get caught up in the physical challenges and bypass the mental ones because they are, in fact, harder. I think I did more meditation at the beginning of the programme and it's tailed off somewhat so I need to really focus on this during phase two.
Today was also the beginning of my three day 'Vegan lifestyle'. I more or less followed it: I had almond milk on my breakfast (banana, apples, almonds, cashews) instead of yoghurt. I skipped the usual sprinkling of cheese over my salad this evening and used cider vinegar as a dressing instead of salad cream. I'm afraid I did have two coffees with cream in them (I tried coffee with almond milk and it was disgusting!). I expect I'll have more or less the same tomorrow and Wednesday - my diet is fairly simple anyway.
I get to try a new DVD tomorrow: 'Gentle'. I'm assuming this is along the same lines as 'Yin', i.e. relaxing and not too physically challenging. I'm going into London early so will probably run when I come back and then do Gentle.
Lots of photos posted yesterday of some of the group in fantastic poses. It appears that there is a headstand in the 'Balance' DVD. I can do headstands but not with my arms in the correct 'yoga' position so I'm a bit anxious about trying that! Balance is on Friday so I'll try and watch it through before then.
Well, up at 5am tomorrow so bed time for me! Goodnight!
Day 32 - Time is flying!
Up quite early for 'Detox'. I'm really starting to like this one. It obviously 'squeezed' out some tension in me because I cried at the end during the final stretches and Shavasana. Pleased that this one stays in the rotation for the coming second phase.
I love the fact that the DVDs are not impossible. I can complete them all with a sense that I've had a good session and achieved something. However, there's so much room for improvement too that I can see myself continuing to gain from them for a long time to come.
There are plenty of examples in this particular DVD. The twisted side angle pose is awkward for me taking my arm over the top and reaching forwards. In the all fours position when Travis says, "Twist round and grab hold of your foot", my hand and foot are nowhere near each other so I settle for 'reaching' rather than 'grabbing'! The twisting half moon pose is practically impossible although I think I achieve a recognizable shape with the help of a block (not entirely sure what that shape is though...).
Spent the rest of the day with family, relaxing and chatting in the sun and eating lots of gorgeous food. I don't do this enough and I'd like to make more time to visit them. After all, for me, nothing is more important and I shouldn't let life get in the way so much.
Tomorrow I am supposed to 'live like a vegan' for three days. Coffee and milk/cream just go together, so that may remain I'm afraid, but other than that, no meat, fish and dairy for three days. The dairy is the struggle - I rarely eat meat and fish anyway and can easily do without...
...and that's all for now! :)
I love the fact that the DVDs are not impossible. I can complete them all with a sense that I've had a good session and achieved something. However, there's so much room for improvement too that I can see myself continuing to gain from them for a long time to come.
There are plenty of examples in this particular DVD. The twisted side angle pose is awkward for me taking my arm over the top and reaching forwards. In the all fours position when Travis says, "Twist round and grab hold of your foot", my hand and foot are nowhere near each other so I settle for 'reaching' rather than 'grabbing'! The twisting half moon pose is practically impossible although I think I achieve a recognizable shape with the help of a block (not entirely sure what that shape is though...).
Spent the rest of the day with family, relaxing and chatting in the sun and eating lots of gorgeous food. I don't do this enough and I'd like to make more time to visit them. After all, for me, nothing is more important and I shouldn't let life get in the way so much.
Tomorrow I am supposed to 'live like a vegan' for three days. Coffee and milk/cream just go together, so that may remain I'm afraid, but other than that, no meat, fish and dairy for three days. The dairy is the struggle - I rarely eat meat and fish anyway and can easily do without...
...and that's all for now! :)
Saturday 27 July 2013
Day 31 - Sort of strong in 'Strength' today
Client this morning and came back home starving. I generally don't have breakfast before early clients. Decided to run and do yoga before eating though, so David and I quickly got changed and went for a little jaunt in the sunshine.
Doing a run before yoga is both good and bad. The good is that it warms me up so I'm much more flexible; the bad is that my hands are sweaty and keep slipping!
At the beginning of this class, Travis talks about how to tackle it and uses the story of a man who could perform miracles by almost watching himself from the outside, rather than experiencing everything he felt. I was completely baffled when I first heard the story because I couldn't understand Travis' accent - he kept talking about "hallowble". What the hell is hallowble? I thought. Is it even a word? Oh, it's the man's name in the story...still doesn't make sense though. Then I finally realized what he was saying: "Hollow Bowl". Ohhhh, now I get it!
'Strength' was tough as usual. I decided to do most of the yogi push ups on my knees and really focus on elbows in, shoulders down. This felt very challenging but I could also do it - it's a better option for me at the moment as I think I compromise my technique doing a full push up. It does make me giggle when I'm holding one of the elbow planks and beginning to shake and Travis says something like, "...breathe, focus and realize it's not a big deal...". It is a big deal! It's tough!
I do prefer doing my sessions early in the morning. It's so quiet then, I can really get in the zone. It was around midday when I did the session today and we have the door and windows open because it's lovely and warm. Next door were obviously having a lunch party and were quite loud. Then my cat Bo came in and started to miaow at me. So, it feels more like a physical workout at this time of day rather than a genuine connection of mind, body and spirit. I guess I'll learn to tune out all the noise though and I enjoyed it anyway - I love moving my body in this way, it's so different from traditional endurance training.
Tomorrow is not relaxing 'Yin' but tie-yourself-in-twisted-knots 'Detox'. I'll have to do it early (7am on a Sunday - outrageous!) because we'll be heading out soon after. I've also realized that in the second phase I don't get to do 'Vitality' which I will really miss. Never mind, I'm sure to enjoy the new ones. I've been advised to watch the 'Balance' DVD before doing it so I'll try and do that later this week.
I might do hardCORE later, we'll see. Off to buy one more pressie to take up to my parent's tomorrow and might treat myself to an afternoon nap. Hope everyone's having a fab day!
Doing a run before yoga is both good and bad. The good is that it warms me up so I'm much more flexible; the bad is that my hands are sweaty and keep slipping!
At the beginning of this class, Travis talks about how to tackle it and uses the story of a man who could perform miracles by almost watching himself from the outside, rather than experiencing everything he felt. I was completely baffled when I first heard the story because I couldn't understand Travis' accent - he kept talking about "hallowble". What the hell is hallowble? I thought. Is it even a word? Oh, it's the man's name in the story...still doesn't make sense though. Then I finally realized what he was saying: "Hollow Bowl". Ohhhh, now I get it!
'Strength' was tough as usual. I decided to do most of the yogi push ups on my knees and really focus on elbows in, shoulders down. This felt very challenging but I could also do it - it's a better option for me at the moment as I think I compromise my technique doing a full push up. It does make me giggle when I'm holding one of the elbow planks and beginning to shake and Travis says something like, "...breathe, focus and realize it's not a big deal...". It is a big deal! It's tough!
I do prefer doing my sessions early in the morning. It's so quiet then, I can really get in the zone. It was around midday when I did the session today and we have the door and windows open because it's lovely and warm. Next door were obviously having a lunch party and were quite loud. Then my cat Bo came in and started to miaow at me. So, it feels more like a physical workout at this time of day rather than a genuine connection of mind, body and spirit. I guess I'll learn to tune out all the noise though and I enjoyed it anyway - I love moving my body in this way, it's so different from traditional endurance training.
Tomorrow is not relaxing 'Yin' but tie-yourself-in-twisted-knots 'Detox'. I'll have to do it early (7am on a Sunday - outrageous!) because we'll be heading out soon after. I've also realized that in the second phase I don't get to do 'Vitality' which I will really miss. Never mind, I'm sure to enjoy the new ones. I've been advised to watch the 'Balance' DVD before doing it so I'll try and do that later this week.
I might do hardCORE later, we'll see. Off to buy one more pressie to take up to my parent's tomorrow and might treat myself to an afternoon nap. Hope everyone's having a fab day!
Friday 26 July 2013
Day 30 - The real reason people fall in 'Balance'
Up at 6.30am for 'Cardio'. Seems such a long time ago now! My early morning yoga sessions always seem to take on a surreal quality by the time I come to review them at the end of the day. It's as though they happened in another place or another time.
I do remember feeling quite strong and controlled though. Breathing was good. And for a split second, I felt that my mind and body were completely in unison; I was flowing through the movement with no effort at all. It was literally a second long, but I felt it! I'm wondering if eventually that sensation continues through an entire class. That would be very cool.
I won't go into details about my morning client, but she is doing very well and I'm very pleased. I also met with a new client this morning and look forward to helping her get back on track with her fitness after injury and life in general got in the way.
I have a schedule change coming up this weekend as I approach my first detox, so I have 'Strength' and 'hardCORE' tomorrow and then 'Detox' on Sunday instead of 'Yin'. I'm looking forward to trying the new DVDs in my second phase of 36 days: 'Balance', 'Flexibility' and 'Gentle'. The others in the facebook group seem to love the balance one, even though they talk a lot about falling over! I've been wondering whether to watch the DVDs first but I think I'll jump right in - I like the surprise and Travis' teaching is so easy to follow anyway. Speaking of Travis, the popular opinion in the group (as there's much discussion about this) is that he's quite easy on the eye :). His bottom is quite distracting apparently. Maybe that's why there's so much wobbling about during 'Balance'? ;).
And speaking of blokes doing yoga, David did the Karen Voight DVD again today! Very impressed. He's enjoying it too, although I don't know that I can see him committing to 108 days. We'll see though - it's certainly life-changing and you can't help but be drawn in (in a good way - that made it sound like a cult!).
Going out of London on Sunday and up to visit the family in the countryside. Bliss - looking forward to some fresh air, beautiful surroundings and seeing my family :).
I do remember feeling quite strong and controlled though. Breathing was good. And for a split second, I felt that my mind and body were completely in unison; I was flowing through the movement with no effort at all. It was literally a second long, but I felt it! I'm wondering if eventually that sensation continues through an entire class. That would be very cool.
I won't go into details about my morning client, but she is doing very well and I'm very pleased. I also met with a new client this morning and look forward to helping her get back on track with her fitness after injury and life in general got in the way.
I have a schedule change coming up this weekend as I approach my first detox, so I have 'Strength' and 'hardCORE' tomorrow and then 'Detox' on Sunday instead of 'Yin'. I'm looking forward to trying the new DVDs in my second phase of 36 days: 'Balance', 'Flexibility' and 'Gentle'. The others in the facebook group seem to love the balance one, even though they talk a lot about falling over! I've been wondering whether to watch the DVDs first but I think I'll jump right in - I like the surprise and Travis' teaching is so easy to follow anyway. Speaking of Travis, the popular opinion in the group (as there's much discussion about this) is that he's quite easy on the eye :). His bottom is quite distracting apparently. Maybe that's why there's so much wobbling about during 'Balance'? ;).
And speaking of blokes doing yoga, David did the Karen Voight DVD again today! Very impressed. He's enjoying it too, although I don't know that I can see him committing to 108 days. We'll see though - it's certainly life-changing and you can't help but be drawn in (in a good way - that made it sound like a cult!).
Going out of London on Sunday and up to visit the family in the countryside. Bliss - looking forward to some fresh air, beautiful surroundings and seeing my family :).
Thursday 25 July 2013
Day 29 - David succumbs to the yoga bug
I soooo didn't want to get up this morning. If it had been anything else, I'd have stayed in bed the extra hour but I genuinely wanted to do some yoga and bonus! It's Cross Train day!
I actually felt sick when I began because I was so tired. I'd eaten late the night before and my stomach was letting me know it wasn't digested yet! However, just a few minutes into the session and that sensation subsided. I felt my body opening up more quickly and easily than it used to before this programme which felt really good. I realized that I usually dread the first cobra of the class because my back is normally quite stiff and something tweaks or twinges, but today there was no restriction. Smooth as you like! My balance is usually pretty good in CT, but today it was a little off. I suspect it was because I decided not to put my contact lenses in so trying to focus on a point in front of me when all I could see were blurry shapes was a little challenging.
One of the UY group had posted a great pic of herself doing side angle pose with her arms wrapped around her back and leg (difficult to explain - and to do!). I've actually not even tried to do this yet as my front leg is already feeling pretty challenged - I need that hand on the floor! Today I thought I'd try it though...no 'wow' moment I'm afraid, my hands were miles off! In fact, I double checked the tv screen because I thought, "This can't be right, my arms must be in the wrong position". But no, they're just too inflexible or too short - or both! I was quite pleased that I could take my hand off the floor and not fall over though, so that was something!
Quick shower and off to my client. Surprise when I got back - David doing yoga! He's been saying he wants to try it and in fact, he did some last night too so I was amazed to see him back on his mat again so quickly. Think he likes it! He's not really done much yoga before so although he's pretty flexible, I suggested he start with Karen Voight's "Yoga Focus". There's no spiritual element to it but it's quite a nice intro for someone who has some experience with yoga and good body awareness. It's only 25 minutes too so good for someone with a short attention span!
Little run and some tree climbing later and later still, hardCORE. Not so much work done today - oh well, tomorrow!
I actually felt sick when I began because I was so tired. I'd eaten late the night before and my stomach was letting me know it wasn't digested yet! However, just a few minutes into the session and that sensation subsided. I felt my body opening up more quickly and easily than it used to before this programme which felt really good. I realized that I usually dread the first cobra of the class because my back is normally quite stiff and something tweaks or twinges, but today there was no restriction. Smooth as you like! My balance is usually pretty good in CT, but today it was a little off. I suspect it was because I decided not to put my contact lenses in so trying to focus on a point in front of me when all I could see were blurry shapes was a little challenging.
One of the UY group had posted a great pic of herself doing side angle pose with her arms wrapped around her back and leg (difficult to explain - and to do!). I've actually not even tried to do this yet as my front leg is already feeling pretty challenged - I need that hand on the floor! Today I thought I'd try it though...no 'wow' moment I'm afraid, my hands were miles off! In fact, I double checked the tv screen because I thought, "This can't be right, my arms must be in the wrong position". But no, they're just too inflexible or too short - or both! I was quite pleased that I could take my hand off the floor and not fall over though, so that was something!
Quick shower and off to my client. Surprise when I got back - David doing yoga! He's been saying he wants to try it and in fact, he did some last night too so I was amazed to see him back on his mat again so quickly. Think he likes it! He's not really done much yoga before so although he's pretty flexible, I suggested he start with Karen Voight's "Yoga Focus". There's no spiritual element to it but it's quite a nice intro for someone who has some experience with yoga and good body awareness. It's only 25 minutes too so good for someone with a short attention span!
Little run and some tree climbing later and later still, hardCORE. Not so much work done today - oh well, tomorrow!
Day 28 - Long way to go with Mountain Pose!
Ah, Mountain Pose. Still haven't got to grips with this. Today I tried to modify it a bit by just changing how I moved my arms slightly so that my shoulders felt safer. I'd been up since 5am and into London and back so again, just standing still was quite uncomfortable - my feet were sore! On the whole, it was better today though, so I think by the end of the programme I might have begun to enjoy it.
I also did Pranayama Meditation. It took me a while to get into it - mainly because I felt guilty hogging the lounge and kept wondering if I should cut it short. However, I did manage to sink into it and was able to sit upright - comfortably - for longer. I couldn't choose just one 'person' or 'group' for the dedication today so I 'showered the light' between three - I hope they felt it!
Went swimming later on. My neck is easing now so it felt quite good. Lot's of people in the pool as it's school holidays but David and I managed to grab a lane and we have a system when we lane swim, so it worked out well.
Didn't get home from my last client until 10.30pm and up at 4.50am tomorrow for 'Cross Train' :).
I also did Pranayama Meditation. It took me a while to get into it - mainly because I felt guilty hogging the lounge and kept wondering if I should cut it short. However, I did manage to sink into it and was able to sit upright - comfortably - for longer. I couldn't choose just one 'person' or 'group' for the dedication today so I 'showered the light' between three - I hope they felt it!
Went swimming later on. My neck is easing now so it felt quite good. Lot's of people in the pool as it's school holidays but David and I managed to grab a lane and we have a system when we lane swim, so it worked out well.
Didn't get home from my last client until 10.30pm and up at 4.50am tomorrow for 'Cross Train' :).
Tuesday 23 July 2013
Day 27 - Got a hair cut
I was up at 6.30am as planned (getting good at this!) for 'Vitality'. I do like this DVD - it's challenging, but in a different way to the others. Not so much arm work, which is a blessing for me at the moment with my dodgy neck and shoulder. I love the flow movement in horse stance - I feel like a martial artist doing this one and my legs feel strong. Incidentally, I was concerned that I'd lose some strength in my legs whilst not doing so much running and resistance work. How wrong I was! This programme really works your legs and I have more definition in them than I've had in ages!
I only had time to eat a small handful of nuts before heading out to clients, so didn't eat properly until 12.45pm - some scrambled eggs. I then went to get my quarterly hair cut. The girl who washed my hair (she did it nice and quickly for me - I hate lying back over those sinks, especially with a sore neck!) said, "Wow, your hair's getting long! Are you trying to grow it even longer?" It made me smile, because I used to be much more bothered about my hair and how much to have cut off, whether I should have it coloured, have a different style, etc. Now, it's just 'there' and I have it cut so it doesn't get too heavy or straggly. So, basically, it's growing so long because I've no interest in doing anything else with it! I'm not saying I've gone to any extreme and just allow it to hang in a greasy mess, but who wants to spend ages styling their hair or worrying about the correct shampoo? If it's buy one, get one free, that's the one I get! Oh, how times change. This is what I love about getting older - you care less about what other people think. It's such a huge relief! Our teenage years are fraught with the desire to fit in...now, I'd much rather do my own thing. Too much of people's time is spent worrying what they look like; they could be spending that time doing something fun...like yoga ;).
There are quite a few people in the facebook group who've been reaching milestones recently, whether it's Day 36, 72 or the Ultimate 108. It's so amazing to read about the transformations. One yogi wrote: "When the student is ready the teacher will appear." I think that probably resonated with the whole group - most of us have come from a place where we've been pushing our bodies and working against them. And as for our minds...well. Talk about stressed! UY seems to appear at just the right time - it certainly did for me. I'm truly grateful and so inspired by everyone else's stories. If you're reading this and you're not in the group, you'll probably think it's sounds a bit serious and that we all eat brown rice and lentils and knit our own socks. But in reality, we're just a bunch of people supporting each other and having a laugh. I hope I get to meet them all one day...
Mountain Pose tomorrow - my nemesis. I wish I enjoyed this one as much as everyone else. One day!
Namaste :).
I only had time to eat a small handful of nuts before heading out to clients, so didn't eat properly until 12.45pm - some scrambled eggs. I then went to get my quarterly hair cut. The girl who washed my hair (she did it nice and quickly for me - I hate lying back over those sinks, especially with a sore neck!) said, "Wow, your hair's getting long! Are you trying to grow it even longer?" It made me smile, because I used to be much more bothered about my hair and how much to have cut off, whether I should have it coloured, have a different style, etc. Now, it's just 'there' and I have it cut so it doesn't get too heavy or straggly. So, basically, it's growing so long because I've no interest in doing anything else with it! I'm not saying I've gone to any extreme and just allow it to hang in a greasy mess, but who wants to spend ages styling their hair or worrying about the correct shampoo? If it's buy one, get one free, that's the one I get! Oh, how times change. This is what I love about getting older - you care less about what other people think. It's such a huge relief! Our teenage years are fraught with the desire to fit in...now, I'd much rather do my own thing. Too much of people's time is spent worrying what they look like; they could be spending that time doing something fun...like yoga ;).
There are quite a few people in the facebook group who've been reaching milestones recently, whether it's Day 36, 72 or the Ultimate 108. It's so amazing to read about the transformations. One yogi wrote: "When the student is ready the teacher will appear." I think that probably resonated with the whole group - most of us have come from a place where we've been pushing our bodies and working against them. And as for our minds...well. Talk about stressed! UY seems to appear at just the right time - it certainly did for me. I'm truly grateful and so inspired by everyone else's stories. If you're reading this and you're not in the group, you'll probably think it's sounds a bit serious and that we all eat brown rice and lentils and knit our own socks. But in reality, we're just a bunch of people supporting each other and having a laugh. I hope I get to meet them all one day...
Mountain Pose tomorrow - my nemesis. I wish I enjoyed this one as much as everyone else. One day!
Namaste :).
Monday 22 July 2013
Day 26 - Better than expected!
My neck and shoulder were really spasming (if that's a word) during the night and this morning. I really didn't think I'd get very far with 'Detox' but I thought I'd try. Surprisingly, it was my best experience yet with that DVD. Ok, the fact that the emphasis is on twisting and my head refused to turn to the right made the poses a little imbalanced, but my attempt at reverse triangle and reverse half moon were my best yet.
I also went for a run much later (today was HOT!) and did my meditation during the run. I then did 'hardCORE' when I got back, so on the whole, a good day for exercise. I got a fair amount of work done too - not bad at all for a Monday!
The consistency of this programme is relentless, but in a good way. As I finished HC at around 8.30pm, I was rolling up my mat thinking, "I need to get this out again in a few hours!" but I wasn't dreading it - I'm looking forward to it. Even though it's tough, there's no sense of having to push it. The idea is NOT to push things, or work against your body, but to work with it.
So, I'll be up for a 6.30am 'Vitality' session followed by two clients back to back. Hope the sun shines again - this weather is glorious!
I also went for a run much later (today was HOT!) and did my meditation during the run. I then did 'hardCORE' when I got back, so on the whole, a good day for exercise. I got a fair amount of work done too - not bad at all for a Monday!
The consistency of this programme is relentless, but in a good way. As I finished HC at around 8.30pm, I was rolling up my mat thinking, "I need to get this out again in a few hours!" but I wasn't dreading it - I'm looking forward to it. Even though it's tough, there's no sense of having to push it. The idea is NOT to push things, or work against your body, but to work with it.
So, I'll be up for a 6.30am 'Vitality' session followed by two clients back to back. Hope the sun shines again - this weather is glorious!
Sunday 21 July 2013
Day 25 - Learning patience
I got up late and had breakfast (my usual combo of banana, apples, cashew nuts, almonds and natural yoghurt), taking my time and watching an old 'Miss Marple'. So quaint and old-fashioned.
I went for a walk in the sunshine with David a bit later. I cannot get enough of this sunshine - it is just beautiful. After the walk, I rolled out my mat ready for 'Yin'. Now, I think there's the tiniest improvement with this one each time a do it. So tiny, it's almost imperceptible. In fact, maybe it's in my imagination! The quad stretch does feel better though, I'm sure - I'm fighting it less.
I do feel a sense of calm flooding over me as I move through this DVD. I can't get deep into the poses at all but I know that eventually I will. I am so disappointed with myself for being so cardio obsessed for so many years though, especially as I knew deep down that being more flexible would help my overall fitness - and longevity. It's quite easy to improve cardio performance and easy for me to push the limit, so this is what I've done time and again. With flexibility though, it's all about patience - really nothing more than that. Travis talks about this in the DVD - doing nothing. It's as tough as 'Strength' in a way. My mind is saying, "well, this isn't going well. There must be something you can do right now to get deeper into this stretch". But, there isn't. You just have to let go and wait. Then wait some more.
Once that initial frustration is over though, the session becomes very relaxing. I felt so calm by the end of it. I am so far away from having my nose on my knees or laying down for the quad stretch (I currently sit up AND use a block!) but I'm also fizzing with anticipation because it will be such an achievement when I can do these things. And the more I work and the longer it takes, the greater the satisfaction will be when I get there.
Off outside now to meditate in the sun :).
I went for a walk in the sunshine with David a bit later. I cannot get enough of this sunshine - it is just beautiful. After the walk, I rolled out my mat ready for 'Yin'. Now, I think there's the tiniest improvement with this one each time a do it. So tiny, it's almost imperceptible. In fact, maybe it's in my imagination! The quad stretch does feel better though, I'm sure - I'm fighting it less.
I do feel a sense of calm flooding over me as I move through this DVD. I can't get deep into the poses at all but I know that eventually I will. I am so disappointed with myself for being so cardio obsessed for so many years though, especially as I knew deep down that being more flexible would help my overall fitness - and longevity. It's quite easy to improve cardio performance and easy for me to push the limit, so this is what I've done time and again. With flexibility though, it's all about patience - really nothing more than that. Travis talks about this in the DVD - doing nothing. It's as tough as 'Strength' in a way. My mind is saying, "well, this isn't going well. There must be something you can do right now to get deeper into this stretch". But, there isn't. You just have to let go and wait. Then wait some more.
Once that initial frustration is over though, the session becomes very relaxing. I felt so calm by the end of it. I am so far away from having my nose on my knees or laying down for the quad stretch (I currently sit up AND use a block!) but I'm also fizzing with anticipation because it will be such an achievement when I can do these things. And the more I work and the longer it takes, the greater the satisfaction will be when I get there.
Off outside now to meditate in the sun :).
Day 24 - I will conquer 'Strength' one day!
Up and out for my client at 8am then back home to do a short run with David followed by 'Strength'. Wow, it's tough! It's definitely better to do after a run because I'm warmed up. I feel that my core works extremely hard during this DVD, so I didn't want to do hardCORE straight away and wasn't too worried about not being able to fit it in later on. There's only so much those muscles can take!
I asked David to take some photos while I was doing the DVD. He only took a few but it's good to see what's going on. My problem has always been that my spine is very tight in some areas and overly flexible in others so this is something I'd like to see improve. The photos weren't as bad as I thought, although my heels are miles off the ground in Downwards Dog - got a long way to go!
Went to meet our friend later on and had a lot of fun...and a few beers. The food was pretty healthy though - or, for my part it was. David and him had two puddings each!
I'm afraid there was no meditation today. We didn't get back until after midnight so I had a few cashew nuts and went to bed!
I will get around the posting the photos, I'm sure. I'm afraid they're not very inspirational as they're obviously 'before' shots - of course I'm hoping to have some amazing 'after' shots where I'm super flexible and strong!
Looking forward to a day off the power yoga tomorrow and just some deep stretches instead with 'Yin'...
I asked David to take some photos while I was doing the DVD. He only took a few but it's good to see what's going on. My problem has always been that my spine is very tight in some areas and overly flexible in others so this is something I'd like to see improve. The photos weren't as bad as I thought, although my heels are miles off the ground in Downwards Dog - got a long way to go!
Went to meet our friend later on and had a lot of fun...and a few beers. The food was pretty healthy though - or, for my part it was. David and him had two puddings each!
I'm afraid there was no meditation today. We didn't get back until after midnight so I had a few cashew nuts and went to bed!
I will get around the posting the photos, I'm sure. I'm afraid they're not very inspirational as they're obviously 'before' shots - of course I'm hoping to have some amazing 'after' shots where I'm super flexible and strong!
Looking forward to a day off the power yoga tomorrow and just some deep stretches instead with 'Yin'...
Friday 19 July 2013
Day 23 - Some thoughts on pain
Why is it easier to get up before 6am rather than between 6am and 7am? I reckon my sleep cycle means that I'm in a deeper sleep after 6am because I always find it harder to wake up.
So, this morning was a little difficult but I only entertained a fleeting thought of staying in bed rather than getting on the mat. I had 'Cardio' today and whilst it was fine, I didn't feel that I got in the zone - I just kind of went through the motions. However, as I began the rest of my day and traveled to my first client, I realized that I was feeling the effects then, rather than when doing the workout. It was a kind of delayed reaction. So I was in the zone whilst driving - most of the time below the speed limit because I was so chilled. It was very pleasant!
I still have a dodgy spasm going on in my neck, with some referred pain in my elbow which is quite sharp and sudden and takes me by surprise. I was uber careful with my form on the mat today though and modified where needed; there's no pain really whilst doing the DVD, it's just every now and then during the day.
Pain is a very funny thing. And a very personal thing too. I've worked with clients in chronic pain, where it's become part of who they are - part of their identity. It becomes increasingly difficult to separate the mental from the physical and a there's research that suggests that there can be some 'trickery' going on in the brain that can convince you of physical damage when, in fact, there is none. On a more regular basis, I find that clients with niggling pains are often holding some emotional tension, or have something in the back of their mind that's bothering them, and it manifests as a physical irritation. I encourage anyone in pain to investigate the bigger (but hidden) picture, because there may be some answers there. For me, there is usually some physical release that coincides with an emotional one and I often feel niggles when I either haven't laughed or cried for a while. So, let it all out - that's what I say!
Early client tomorrow, followed by a run and then 'Strength'. Meeting a friend in the afternoon and I am afraid there will be beers involved but I will try and be sensible. Haven't seen him in a while - wow, since Christmas I think - so we'll see.
Lots of new people joining the UY group on facebook and having positive experiences already. The more experienced ones further into the programme continue to post amazing shots - bendy and serene! It's like a little on-going party that you can just drop into and have a chat when you want - love it!
So, this morning was a little difficult but I only entertained a fleeting thought of staying in bed rather than getting on the mat. I had 'Cardio' today and whilst it was fine, I didn't feel that I got in the zone - I just kind of went through the motions. However, as I began the rest of my day and traveled to my first client, I realized that I was feeling the effects then, rather than when doing the workout. It was a kind of delayed reaction. So I was in the zone whilst driving - most of the time below the speed limit because I was so chilled. It was very pleasant!
I still have a dodgy spasm going on in my neck, with some referred pain in my elbow which is quite sharp and sudden and takes me by surprise. I was uber careful with my form on the mat today though and modified where needed; there's no pain really whilst doing the DVD, it's just every now and then during the day.
Pain is a very funny thing. And a very personal thing too. I've worked with clients in chronic pain, where it's become part of who they are - part of their identity. It becomes increasingly difficult to separate the mental from the physical and a there's research that suggests that there can be some 'trickery' going on in the brain that can convince you of physical damage when, in fact, there is none. On a more regular basis, I find that clients with niggling pains are often holding some emotional tension, or have something in the back of their mind that's bothering them, and it manifests as a physical irritation. I encourage anyone in pain to investigate the bigger (but hidden) picture, because there may be some answers there. For me, there is usually some physical release that coincides with an emotional one and I often feel niggles when I either haven't laughed or cried for a while. So, let it all out - that's what I say!
Early client tomorrow, followed by a run and then 'Strength'. Meeting a friend in the afternoon and I am afraid there will be beers involved but I will try and be sensible. Haven't seen him in a while - wow, since Christmas I think - so we'll see.
Lots of new people joining the UY group on facebook and having positive experiences already. The more experienced ones further into the programme continue to post amazing shots - bendy and serene! It's like a little on-going party that you can just drop into and have a chat when you want - love it!
Thursday 18 July 2013
Day 22 - Cross Train :)
I got up at 4.45 this morning for 'Cross Train'. My neck spasm had made my sleep a bit fretful but I was determined to get on the mat and see what I could do. Surprisingly, most of the DVD was ok (and it's one of my faves) so I modified where needed and made sure not to push it.
Out to my client for 7am and then David and I went for a run when I got back. Lots of work on the pc followed by a quick trip to the shops and then some meditation in the sunshine (managed to block out the sounds of South East London - no easy task!) before doing 'hardCORE'. Definitely ready for my bed now!
Each day reinforces, just a little bit more, why I wanted to do this programme. My mantra - or chosen attribute - for yesterday's meditation was 'focus'. This is what I lack and today I kept repeating it to myself which helped me finish the article I was writing instead of getting side tracked by the terrible distraction that is the internet!
My little fluffy cat wanted to join in again this morning. I really must get her her own mat so she can stretch out with me - I feel so mean pushing her off my mat but I don't want to squash her if I happen to fall over trying to balance in half moon pose, which is something you can't predict!
It's 'Cardio' tomorrow and I'm slightly dreading the 'series of 10'. The competitor in me thinks I have to do them all every time now because I've achieved it once. My inner 'yogi' might be strong enough by now though to override that instinct! We shall see!
Out to my client for 7am and then David and I went for a run when I got back. Lots of work on the pc followed by a quick trip to the shops and then some meditation in the sunshine (managed to block out the sounds of South East London - no easy task!) before doing 'hardCORE'. Definitely ready for my bed now!
Each day reinforces, just a little bit more, why I wanted to do this programme. My mantra - or chosen attribute - for yesterday's meditation was 'focus'. This is what I lack and today I kept repeating it to myself which helped me finish the article I was writing instead of getting side tracked by the terrible distraction that is the internet!
My little fluffy cat wanted to join in again this morning. I really must get her her own mat so she can stretch out with me - I feel so mean pushing her off my mat but I don't want to squash her if I happen to fall over trying to balance in half moon pose, which is something you can't predict!
It's 'Cardio' tomorrow and I'm slightly dreading the 'series of 10'. The competitor in me thinks I have to do them all every time now because I've achieved it once. My inner 'yogi' might be strong enough by now though to override that instinct! We shall see!
Wednesday 17 July 2013
Day 21 - A bit of a moan
Ok. I'm afraid I still don't like Mountain Pose. Everyone on the DVD looks really zoned out but with each movement, my shoulders just feel more awkward. If you've ever suffered with repeated dislocations, you'll know what I mean - there are certain positions where your shoulders feel vulnerable which makes it very difficult to relax. My feet also get sore from standing still...
Not quite finished with my moan :). Yoga, whichever version you do, requires you to do a lot of supporting with your arms, in plank and chaturanga (lowering down to the floor from plank) and I think my arms are a bit overwhelmed with it all. So, when I went swimming today, I felt my neck and shoulder on my right side go into spasm and it's pretty uncomfortable. I need to get back to swimming twice a week if possible so I maintain my mobility.
None of this will stop me keeping going. It just highlights the areas I need to work on. It also shows me that maybe I should be putting my knees down for modified push ups more, rather than trying to do the full ones each time.
I've been a bit crap with proper sleep patterns and food...and beer. So, I'll be up early to do Cross Train before my first client (before 5am then - ouch!) having had a super-healthy meal of olives, lentils, cous cous and goats cheese. And two pints of WATER.
As Travis says, each time you come to your mat, you're reinforcing why you're doing this. The consistency is the key and it's what gets me back on track pretty quickly if I veer off in other areas such as nutrition and stress levels.
My plan is to float through tomorrow on a breath of serenity...ha ha, we shall see!
Not quite finished with my moan :). Yoga, whichever version you do, requires you to do a lot of supporting with your arms, in plank and chaturanga (lowering down to the floor from plank) and I think my arms are a bit overwhelmed with it all. So, when I went swimming today, I felt my neck and shoulder on my right side go into spasm and it's pretty uncomfortable. I need to get back to swimming twice a week if possible so I maintain my mobility.
None of this will stop me keeping going. It just highlights the areas I need to work on. It also shows me that maybe I should be putting my knees down for modified push ups more, rather than trying to do the full ones each time.
I've been a bit crap with proper sleep patterns and food...and beer. So, I'll be up early to do Cross Train before my first client (before 5am then - ouch!) having had a super-healthy meal of olives, lentils, cous cous and goats cheese. And two pints of WATER.
As Travis says, each time you come to your mat, you're reinforcing why you're doing this. The consistency is the key and it's what gets me back on track pretty quickly if I veer off in other areas such as nutrition and stress levels.
My plan is to float through tomorrow on a breath of serenity...ha ha, we shall see!
Tuesday 16 July 2013
Day 20 - Congrats to the '72' graduates!
First of all, I'm so pleased for all those who completed their 72 Sun Salutations today - there were quite a few! This is a bit of a milestone in the programme as it completes the second series of the three thirty six day segments of the full 108 (if that makes sense!). Those who are at that stage report massive changes, both physically and mentally and many of them felt quite emotional completing their second third. Such a great achievement. It feels a long way off for me but the programme is going so fast, it'll be upon me quicker than I expect!
I was up fairly early to do 'Vitality' this morning. I do like this one, although my spine needs a little coaxing with all that bending backwards. I wasn't really feeling up for it when I first got on the mat, but as seems to be the case almost all the time, the more I flowed, the more I began to appreciate moving. By the end I was all ready to go into London and meet up with my sister.
We were shopping for my mum. We're terrible at making decisions and the hours flew by as we deliberated over what to buy her. It wasn't a hugely successful trip but we have made progress! We did soooo much walking (most of it barefoot for me) so we're tired. My sister is sleeping on the sofa right now before she has to travel two hours home.
I'll be up at 5am to go to my client so I won't do Mountain Pose and Pranayama Meditation until I get home. Let's see if I can get to grips with MP this time - everyone else seems to love it but it doesn't yet suit my dodgy shoulders. Hope to get a swim in tomorrow too - might even brave the outdoor pool soon if this weather keeps up! It is beautiful - long may it last!
I was up fairly early to do 'Vitality' this morning. I do like this one, although my spine needs a little coaxing with all that bending backwards. I wasn't really feeling up for it when I first got on the mat, but as seems to be the case almost all the time, the more I flowed, the more I began to appreciate moving. By the end I was all ready to go into London and meet up with my sister.
We were shopping for my mum. We're terrible at making decisions and the hours flew by as we deliberated over what to buy her. It wasn't a hugely successful trip but we have made progress! We did soooo much walking (most of it barefoot for me) so we're tired. My sister is sleeping on the sofa right now before she has to travel two hours home.
I'll be up at 5am to go to my client so I won't do Mountain Pose and Pranayama Meditation until I get home. Let's see if I can get to grips with MP this time - everyone else seems to love it but it doesn't yet suit my dodgy shoulders. Hope to get a swim in tomorrow too - might even brave the outdoor pool soon if this weather keeps up! It is beautiful - long may it last!
Monday 15 July 2013
Day 19 - Another short one!
I'm pleased to say that I really enjoyed 'Detox' this morning. I still struggled a great deal with the triangle pose sequence, but used a yoga block and it was manageable. I did detox first thing, followed by hours working at the pc. I hate sitting for so long (although I love writing) but was pleased to get lots done.
I had clients this afternoon/evening and did hardCORE when I came back. It went well - I find it much better to do separately so that I've had a chance to recover. I increased the number of reps and held the plank sequence as long as Travis - woo hoo!
A note about hardCORE: it's not one that people tend to discuss in the facebook group. It's sort of an add-on DVD that is just 18 minutes long, so very manageable. I have to say that I'm quite fussy about core workouts, but I enjoy this one. I think it's quite balanced and is challenging without being impossible. There's so much demand on the core muscles in the other DVDs that anything harder would be too much.
More photos have been posted by facebook group members that continue to inspire me. I'm really hoping to improve my flexibility with this programme and others are showing me that it's entirely possible. It's a great little community!
'Vitality' tomorrow - I love Vitality. I'll be up early to do it before meeting up with my sister in Central London. Off to meditate now before bed :).
I had clients this afternoon/evening and did hardCORE when I came back. It went well - I find it much better to do separately so that I've had a chance to recover. I increased the number of reps and held the plank sequence as long as Travis - woo hoo!
A note about hardCORE: it's not one that people tend to discuss in the facebook group. It's sort of an add-on DVD that is just 18 minutes long, so very manageable. I have to say that I'm quite fussy about core workouts, but I enjoy this one. I think it's quite balanced and is challenging without being impossible. There's so much demand on the core muscles in the other DVDs that anything harder would be too much.
More photos have been posted by facebook group members that continue to inspire me. I'm really hoping to improve my flexibility with this programme and others are showing me that it's entirely possible. It's a great little community!
'Vitality' tomorrow - I love Vitality. I'll be up early to do it before meeting up with my sister in Central London. Off to meditate now before bed :).
Sunday 14 July 2013
Day 18 - Run and Yin!
Today was extremely hot again. I had a lie-in (thought I deserved one :)) and watched the Moto GP. Those guys are amazing - such great sportsmanship.
Went for a short run - maybe 25 minutes - then had a cold bath to help me cool down before doing 'Yin'. It's so hot today! But I love it - so nice to see the sun and be warm after having such a cold, dark, looonng winter.
By the way, I don't have any idea of how long or how far I run. I used to watch the clock and measure out the mileage like someone possessed, but since running barefoot, I've tried to just enjoy running for running's sake. I have a general idea of time, but nothing more, and it's nice.
I still haven't quite figured out how to enjoy 'Yin', but I'm modifying the poses so that they work as well as possible for me. I wonder how long it'll be before I'm able to even think about getting my nose even close to my knees in seated forward bend, or chest on the floor in wide angle pose. I can't believe I used to be able to do the box splits when I was younger! It felt good to do the DVD post run when I was still warm though. And the calf niggle I had at the end of the run had disappeared by the end of the DVD.
I'm not doing brilliantly with the nutrition side of things yet. To be fair, there wasn't a great deal of improvement to make as I eat a lot of fruit and veg anyway and very little meat. Like a lot of runners I know, I like my beer and although I've cut down, I've yet to cut it out and I'm not sure I want to. Or, at least, I don't want to feel I have to and then feel overwhelmed with guilt if I succumb. That's not what this journey is about for me. I've always been quite an 'all or nothing' person - it's in my genes. I know this because my mum has told me that when I was just a baby, I would feed constantly for 24 hours straight (and then, more often than not, throw up) and then sleep for 24 hours and not feed at all. So, this journey is effectively about me changing the habit of a lifetime AND my DNA! No easy task. So, I'm gradually cutting down on the naughty foods and increasing the good stuff, bit by bit. That way, I think I'll be able (eventually) to maintain some kind of moderation.
'Detox' is on the cards tomorrow. My morning client has switched to later in the day, so I'll do it first thing when David's out with his first client. Better get a good night's sleep!
Went for a short run - maybe 25 minutes - then had a cold bath to help me cool down before doing 'Yin'. It's so hot today! But I love it - so nice to see the sun and be warm after having such a cold, dark, looonng winter.
By the way, I don't have any idea of how long or how far I run. I used to watch the clock and measure out the mileage like someone possessed, but since running barefoot, I've tried to just enjoy running for running's sake. I have a general idea of time, but nothing more, and it's nice.
I still haven't quite figured out how to enjoy 'Yin', but I'm modifying the poses so that they work as well as possible for me. I wonder how long it'll be before I'm able to even think about getting my nose even close to my knees in seated forward bend, or chest on the floor in wide angle pose. I can't believe I used to be able to do the box splits when I was younger! It felt good to do the DVD post run when I was still warm though. And the calf niggle I had at the end of the run had disappeared by the end of the DVD.
I'm not doing brilliantly with the nutrition side of things yet. To be fair, there wasn't a great deal of improvement to make as I eat a lot of fruit and veg anyway and very little meat. Like a lot of runners I know, I like my beer and although I've cut down, I've yet to cut it out and I'm not sure I want to. Or, at least, I don't want to feel I have to and then feel overwhelmed with guilt if I succumb. That's not what this journey is about for me. I've always been quite an 'all or nothing' person - it's in my genes. I know this because my mum has told me that when I was just a baby, I would feed constantly for 24 hours straight (and then, more often than not, throw up) and then sleep for 24 hours and not feed at all. So, this journey is effectively about me changing the habit of a lifetime AND my DNA! No easy task. So, I'm gradually cutting down on the naughty foods and increasing the good stuff, bit by bit. That way, I think I'll be able (eventually) to maintain some kind of moderation.
'Detox' is on the cards tomorrow. My morning client has switched to later in the day, so I'll do it first thing when David's out with his first client. Better get a good night's sleep!
Day 17 - A tough one
I had two back to back clients this morning with some traveling involved, so I didn't get home until about 12.30pm. It was so hot, though, that I wasn't hungry so I thought I may as well go straight into my 'Strength' session.
I must admit, this was the hardest workout I've had yet. A combination of being tired, hot and hungry made it a real challenge. Plus, 'Strength' is one of the hardest ones anyway.
I had a little doze afterwards but not for long because I wanted to shower and get going to meet my friend at the park. David came too. We walked to the park, picking up some drinks on the way, so it was probably around a two miler, in the heat. We met with my friend and chatted for ages - it was good to catch up. She was interested in my yoga and also wanted to make sure I wasn't turning into a purist, "my body is a temple" kind of person. Nah - but, I did enjoy explaining what this 108 journey has done for me already and pleased that she commented on my "toned arms"!
I was supposed to do 'hardCORE' as well today but my core is always exhausted by the time I've done 'Strength' and I only did the core workout last night. No point trying to do it today - it would do more harm than good. In fact, my core only just about held up for the walk home!
Relaxed 'Yin' tomorrow, so thinking of doing a run as well...
I must admit, this was the hardest workout I've had yet. A combination of being tired, hot and hungry made it a real challenge. Plus, 'Strength' is one of the hardest ones anyway.
I had a little doze afterwards but not for long because I wanted to shower and get going to meet my friend at the park. David came too. We walked to the park, picking up some drinks on the way, so it was probably around a two miler, in the heat. We met with my friend and chatted for ages - it was good to catch up. She was interested in my yoga and also wanted to make sure I wasn't turning into a purist, "my body is a temple" kind of person. Nah - but, I did enjoy explaining what this 108 journey has done for me already and pleased that she commented on my "toned arms"!
I was supposed to do 'hardCORE' as well today but my core is always exhausted by the time I've done 'Strength' and I only did the core workout last night. No point trying to do it today - it would do more harm than good. In fact, my core only just about held up for the walk home!
Relaxed 'Yin' tomorrow, so thinking of doing a run as well...
Friday 12 July 2013
Day 16 - Short post, very tired!
I'm exhausted! I did 'Cardio' this morning and then this evening decided to do a weights DVD for an hour, as well as the hardCORE I missed yesterday. It's not really the physical exercise that's the issue though - I've been in front of the pc most of the day and that makes me feel so tired.
Cardio went pretty well, although my hayfever means that my nose is a bit blocked sometimes so the breath flow could have been better. I managed the series of ten though - woo hoo!
I have clients in the morning so will probably do 'Strength' when I get back. Need to make the most of the sunshine too - it's apparently going to be really hot tomorrow so looks like I'll be meeting a friend in the local park to catch up on some gossip and catch some rays too! Need to dig out some sunscreen - haven't had to use any for about three years...
Shower, meditate, bed. Looking forward to a lie-in on Sunday...
Cardio went pretty well, although my hayfever means that my nose is a bit blocked sometimes so the breath flow could have been better. I managed the series of ten though - woo hoo!
I have clients in the morning so will probably do 'Strength' when I get back. Need to make the most of the sunshine too - it's apparently going to be really hot tomorrow so looks like I'll be meeting a friend in the local park to catch up on some gossip and catch some rays too! Need to dig out some sunscreen - haven't had to use any for about three years...
Shower, meditate, bed. Looking forward to a lie-in on Sunday...
Thursday 11 July 2013
Day 15 - In my head, I'm graceful and serene!
Ah, Cross Train! I love Cross Train! It's like Travis says, it has a little bit of everything. What's more, on this round, my third one of this DVD, it's as though I can feel the little niggles and idiosyncrasies beginning to iron themselves out. There are points in each movement and sequence of movements where I'm expecting my body to respond in a particular way. I'll be going into a forward bend and be expecting a pull in my hamstrings, stopping me from straightening my legs. But now there's more length, so the familiar pull either happens later or not at all. Or, with my dodgy shoulders, I'll be anticipating having to adjust a few times before I can take my arm over my head in side angle pose or triangle pose, but again, I find my arm will circle smoothly over without my shoulder popping out of joint!
To feel these things happening is so rewarding. I've had to adopt certain ways of moving for so long so my shoulders remain in their sockets, that the resulting tension has affected my entire body. My goal is to be able to move my arms without a second thought for the safety of my shoulder joints. But any improvement is hugely gratifying.
I had half planned to get up before 5am to do the DVD before my first client, but I have a confession to make: I had not one, but TWO beers last night. Late in the evening as well because I didn't get back from seeing my last client until 10.30pm (Wednesdays are loooong days). As a result, I felt tired this morning (although getting up at 6am instead of 5am felt like a lie-in - never thought I'd be saying that!) and it meant doing my DVD when I got home. This also meant that soon after I'd started, David arrived home after his first client and was in the lounge working on the pc while I exercised. I find that I can't quite get into the zone knowing that he's watching and listening. Most of the time, I know he's ignoring what I'm doing (I've always done exercise videos/DVDs so he's used to it and tunes me out!) but I also know he's interested in these DVDs and my progress.
I asked him what I looked like. He said, "What do you mean?" I said, "Well, do I look strong, weak, flexible, inflexible...?" He hesitated (never a good sign) and said, "Well, a mixture really. Sometimes you moved smoothly into the poses and other times you kind of fell into them". Hmm, I'll take that. Could be worse! It's only Day 15 after all!
I keep saying that I'd like him to take some photos of me so that I can monitor my progress. No photos as yet, mainly because I don't think I want to know what I look like. At least I can imagine that I'm strong and graceful without having photographic evidence to the contrary!
To feel these things happening is so rewarding. I've had to adopt certain ways of moving for so long so my shoulders remain in their sockets, that the resulting tension has affected my entire body. My goal is to be able to move my arms without a second thought for the safety of my shoulder joints. But any improvement is hugely gratifying.
I had half planned to get up before 5am to do the DVD before my first client, but I have a confession to make: I had not one, but TWO beers last night. Late in the evening as well because I didn't get back from seeing my last client until 10.30pm (Wednesdays are loooong days). As a result, I felt tired this morning (although getting up at 6am instead of 5am felt like a lie-in - never thought I'd be saying that!) and it meant doing my DVD when I got home. This also meant that soon after I'd started, David arrived home after his first client and was in the lounge working on the pc while I exercised. I find that I can't quite get into the zone knowing that he's watching and listening. Most of the time, I know he's ignoring what I'm doing (I've always done exercise videos/DVDs so he's used to it and tunes me out!) but I also know he's interested in these DVDs and my progress.
I asked him what I looked like. He said, "What do you mean?" I said, "Well, do I look strong, weak, flexible, inflexible...?" He hesitated (never a good sign) and said, "Well, a mixture really. Sometimes you moved smoothly into the poses and other times you kind of fell into them". Hmm, I'll take that. Could be worse! It's only Day 15 after all!
I keep saying that I'd like him to take some photos of me so that I can monitor my progress. No photos as yet, mainly because I don't think I want to know what I look like. At least I can imagine that I'm strong and graceful without having photographic evidence to the contrary!
Day 14 - More tears (in a good way!)
I have to admit that I'm not a fan of Mountain Pose. I think there are a couple of reasons for this: 1) It falls on a Wednesday, which is when I have to be up at 5am and do a lot of walking to get to one of my clients. Mountain Pose is all done virtually standing still, so my feet are quite sore by the end of it!
The other problem I have is that I've had problems with my shoulders in the past (my right shoulder has dislocated several times). Apparently, I have "poor tissue quality"! Anyway, there's lots of reaching above the head in this one and my shoulders do feel a bit vulnerable.
So, I think I like the idea of it and it's very meditative, but my sore feet and troublesome shoulders detract from my enjoyment. Oh, and I can't squat all the way down yet, but neither can a lot of the group on the DVD so I don't feel too inadequate!
I confess I didn't have time to do all of the Pranayama Meditation, so only did the first cycle of breathing, followed by the full meditation. The first time I did this, it made me cry. Same again second time around! When Travis says something along the lines of, "I just don't know how I got so far away from myself", I'm like a gibbering wreck. But in a good way! I feel so calm at the end of the session, it's well worth the time to get focused.
I also went for a run with David in the afternoon. Not sure how long it was - maybe 25 minutes - it felt good!
Later on, I had a discussion about stress with one of my clients. The sources of our stress have a lot to do with the choices we make. How we deal with the stress is also a choice. I've always been committed to exercise but didn't stick to a routine with it. I actually didn't want to have to do something on a particular day. However, with this yoga programme, I find it very reassuring that, whatever the day brings, I know that I'll have an hour or so, just me and my mat, to re-balance and this gives me a deep sense of well-being. This calm is slowly spreading into my life; I keep track of it when I drive. Driving is one of the least enjoyable activities I do - anyone who lives in a busy, overcrowded city will empathize. I'm slowly learning to breathe and relax and be unperturbed by other road users. Some days are better than others, I'll admit, and there is the occasional rant happening inside my little cockpit along with a bit of 'blue' language, but on the whole there's an improvement!
Looking forward to tomorrow's 'Cross Train' - one of my favourites :).
The other problem I have is that I've had problems with my shoulders in the past (my right shoulder has dislocated several times). Apparently, I have "poor tissue quality"! Anyway, there's lots of reaching above the head in this one and my shoulders do feel a bit vulnerable.
So, I think I like the idea of it and it's very meditative, but my sore feet and troublesome shoulders detract from my enjoyment. Oh, and I can't squat all the way down yet, but neither can a lot of the group on the DVD so I don't feel too inadequate!
I confess I didn't have time to do all of the Pranayama Meditation, so only did the first cycle of breathing, followed by the full meditation. The first time I did this, it made me cry. Same again second time around! When Travis says something along the lines of, "I just don't know how I got so far away from myself", I'm like a gibbering wreck. But in a good way! I feel so calm at the end of the session, it's well worth the time to get focused.
I also went for a run with David in the afternoon. Not sure how long it was - maybe 25 minutes - it felt good!
Later on, I had a discussion about stress with one of my clients. The sources of our stress have a lot to do with the choices we make. How we deal with the stress is also a choice. I've always been committed to exercise but didn't stick to a routine with it. I actually didn't want to have to do something on a particular day. However, with this yoga programme, I find it very reassuring that, whatever the day brings, I know that I'll have an hour or so, just me and my mat, to re-balance and this gives me a deep sense of well-being. This calm is slowly spreading into my life; I keep track of it when I drive. Driving is one of the least enjoyable activities I do - anyone who lives in a busy, overcrowded city will empathize. I'm slowly learning to breathe and relax and be unperturbed by other road users. Some days are better than others, I'll admit, and there is the occasional rant happening inside my little cockpit along with a bit of 'blue' language, but on the whole there's an improvement!
Looking forward to tomorrow's 'Cross Train' - one of my favourites :).
Tuesday 9 July 2013
Day 13 - There's room on my mat for blocks :)
I was up at 5am to get
to my client in the centre of London, so did the Vitality DVD when I got
home. I think this is one of my
favourites, along with maybe ‘Cross Train’.
I find that my back really needs it, although some of the poses are
pretty tough so breath focus is extremely important so I don’t push it too
far. I used the blocks again today for a
couple of poses – they are great tools that I have been reluctant to use
because I like the thought of it being just me and my mat. I realize, though, that during the process,
the blocks can help to get the most out of the poses and at some stage, I won’t
need them anymore.
My knees had been feeling a bit tight and clicky for a couple of days. This DVD seemed to sort it out. There are a few little gems in this workout that really target what I need. It's not so strength focued either so I find that my breathing is easier to control. There's a pose towards the end that involves sitting up with one leg out straight and the other crossed over your thigh, as high as you can get it. Up to now, my knees have felt a bit vulnerable in this pose but today I could do it. Quite pleased about that!
One of the many things I'm interested in finding out as this programme unfolds, is how it will help (or hinder) my running. I've greatly reduced my running mileage and frequency and my body obviously needed that - my runs lately have felt more comfortable. I'm wondering how the increased flexibility will take effect; I think I'll do another little run tomorrow if I have time and see what's currently happening :).
My knees had been feeling a bit tight and clicky for a couple of days. This DVD seemed to sort it out. There are a few little gems in this workout that really target what I need. It's not so strength focued either so I find that my breathing is easier to control. There's a pose towards the end that involves sitting up with one leg out straight and the other crossed over your thigh, as high as you can get it. Up to now, my knees have felt a bit vulnerable in this pose but today I could do it. Quite pleased about that!
One of the many things I'm interested in finding out as this programme unfolds, is how it will help (or hinder) my running. I've greatly reduced my running mileage and frequency and my body obviously needed that - my runs lately have felt more comfortable. I'm wondering how the increased flexibility will take effect; I think I'll do another little run tomorrow if I have time and see what's currently happening :).
I almost fell asleep at
the end of the DVD. Today and tomorrow
are long days so I think a little nap later on may be in order!
Day 12 - Bendy I am not (yet!)
This is one of the
DVDs that seems to highlight my lack of flexibility the most! I feel quite awkward in some of the poses,
especially the reverse triangle pose and balance. Today I used the blocks as an aid though and
was able to achieve a better position, so I’ll continue to do that. I’ll certainly feel a massive sense of
achievement when I can do this DVD and feel comfortable and graceful. Glad I’ve still got a while to work on it!
I did hardCORE in the evening. I quite enjoy this. I managed to hold the plank sequence as long
as Travis which I was chuffed about. I
also swam 70 lengths this afternoon so I should sleep well tonight!
I have been
researching online about mala beads and have ordered a custom bracelet. I found out what all the different
stones/crystals signify and chose what meant the most to me. I’m the type of person that likes to have a
symbol that represents something; I can wear this bracelet all the time and it
will provide a constant reminder and reassurance of my goals and journey.
I can’t remember much
of the ‘Vitality’ DVD apart from the emphasis being on backbends, so let’s see
what tomorrow brings!
Sunday 7 July 2013
Day 11 - 20 min run, one hour stretch!
Feeling very chilled indeed after just finishing 'Yin'. I must admit, I still found it very challenging and it reminds me how tight I really am, but I know I'll slowly release with patience and perseverance. Some of the poses I find are a little awkward for me so those are harder to relax into, but on the whole I think I enjoyed this more than the first time I did it. By the end, I certainly felt much more relaxed and yes, there were some tears of release - getting fairly normal for me now!
I went for a short run with David earlier in the day, barefoot of course. I focused on my breathing and staying relaxed. I also tried to feel gratitude for being able to run - something I don't remember to do often enough. I felt a couple of mild niggles which coincided with me working harder (going uphill or inadvertently increasing my speed) - very interesting observation but not entirely surprising. So many people could avoid aches, pains and injury if they stopped trying to consistently push their bodies to the limit. Sometimes it takes a long time for people to realize this though - it is hard to convince clients to calm down, especially runners! They're motivated by mileage and speed, not by inner calm. The problem is, you have to take several steps backwards and learn to 'let go' before you fully understand that by doing this, you will ultimately run faster and freer, and feel fitter and healthier.
I caught myself wishing that I'd found UY years ago but quickly realized that this was probably the right time for me. Before now, maybe I wouldn't have been ready and would have allowed this gift to just sit and gather dust somewhere, not fully understanding where it could take me.
There's talk of the next Bali retreat with Travis on the facebook group. Apparently it's in 2015 - now that would be something to look forward to!
I went for a short run with David earlier in the day, barefoot of course. I focused on my breathing and staying relaxed. I also tried to feel gratitude for being able to run - something I don't remember to do often enough. I felt a couple of mild niggles which coincided with me working harder (going uphill or inadvertently increasing my speed) - very interesting observation but not entirely surprising. So many people could avoid aches, pains and injury if they stopped trying to consistently push their bodies to the limit. Sometimes it takes a long time for people to realize this though - it is hard to convince clients to calm down, especially runners! They're motivated by mileage and speed, not by inner calm. The problem is, you have to take several steps backwards and learn to 'let go' before you fully understand that by doing this, you will ultimately run faster and freer, and feel fitter and healthier.
I caught myself wishing that I'd found UY years ago but quickly realized that this was probably the right time for me. Before now, maybe I wouldn't have been ready and would have allowed this gift to just sit and gather dust somewhere, not fully understanding where it could take me.
There's talk of the next Bali retreat with Travis on the facebook group. Apparently it's in 2015 - now that would be something to look forward to!
Saturday 6 July 2013
Day 10 - Inspiration from all
Wow. Before I begin, I think it's only right to give a shout out to a fellow UY, Rob, who has just completed the journey! A journey of 108 days that has transformed his life! Or rather, has empowered him to transform his life. Great work!
I was predictably very tired this morning and made the decision, when my alarm went off at 5.50am, to have an extra hour of sleep and to do my 'Strength' DVD later on. I knew I'd have time and it wasn't a big deal - I needed the extra hour and that was that.
I should say, at this point, that I am very grateful for the sunshine we're finally seeing here in the UK! It was beautiful today and I got a little bit sun burnt working with a running client out in the open (I'm used to wearing several layers and being either freezing, wet through, or both!).
I find the 'Strength' programme very tough - but also one I want to conquer and move through with complete control. I incorporated 'hardCORE' into the session, switching DVDs towards the end so that I could do the hardcore routine and then finish with the stretch/relaxation on the 'Strength' DVD. I'm not yet sure if this is the best way to fit the two in, but today it was a good option. I'm going with the flow!
I've been looking at some of the photos that people who are further through the programme than me have posted. Feet behind necks, all kinds of impossible looking balances - I am both excited to try these and also a little scared!
Looking forward to a little run in the morning and a relaxing 'Yin' session later on. Big day for sports tomorrow too - more tennis (men's Wimbledon final) and the F1. Great match between Lisicki and Bartoli today - congrats to both for their commitment to - and love of - their sport.
Namaste :).
I was predictably very tired this morning and made the decision, when my alarm went off at 5.50am, to have an extra hour of sleep and to do my 'Strength' DVD later on. I knew I'd have time and it wasn't a big deal - I needed the extra hour and that was that.
I should say, at this point, that I am very grateful for the sunshine we're finally seeing here in the UK! It was beautiful today and I got a little bit sun burnt working with a running client out in the open (I'm used to wearing several layers and being either freezing, wet through, or both!).
I find the 'Strength' programme very tough - but also one I want to conquer and move through with complete control. I incorporated 'hardCORE' into the session, switching DVDs towards the end so that I could do the hardcore routine and then finish with the stretch/relaxation on the 'Strength' DVD. I'm not yet sure if this is the best way to fit the two in, but today it was a good option. I'm going with the flow!
I've been looking at some of the photos that people who are further through the programme than me have posted. Feet behind necks, all kinds of impossible looking balances - I am both excited to try these and also a little scared!
Looking forward to a little run in the morning and a relaxing 'Yin' session later on. Big day for sports tomorrow too - more tennis (men's Wimbledon final) and the F1. Great match between Lisicki and Bartoli today - congrats to both for their commitment to - and love of - their sport.
Namaste :).
Friday 5 July 2013
Day 9 of 108 - Is there a place for non-yoga exercise?
I felt surprisingly good this morning after lots of walking around London streets yesterday. I managed 'Cardio' better than the first time around. I'm so much more in control of my breathing.
During this period of exploration, I'm finding myself in a bit of a quandry about how to approach this programme. I said in my first blog entry that I would give up my other exercise activities whilst doing UY if I found that it was detrimental. However, I feel as though I'm currently in no-mans land; I'll happily commit to the 108 days - I have already - but I'm unsure if I should keep going with the running, swimming and weights. I guess that the answer should be to let my body guide me, but I was interested to know what other members of the group were doing, so I asked the question on facebook: are you solely doing the yoga programme and nothing more?
There were lots of answers; most of the group are just doing the yoga. Some are doing cardio - a bit of running and/or walking - but no one mentioned continuing a weights regime. The general consensus is that the yoga is enough and there is certainly plenty to be getting on with! What struck me, though, was that several of the group have, in the past, been quite extreme exercisers, pushing their bodies to the limit. I'd put myself in that category too. The wonderful thing is that there has obviously been a shift in their mental approach to exercise, the emphasis on being kind to the body instead of pushing it and learning to enjoy other areas of life more rather than live for training. I think this is something that the programme teaches you.
So, at this relatively early stage in my journey, I'm still a bit unsure where the balance is. Funnily enough, I write endless programmes for my clients and know what they need, but I think my own mind and body are still battling a bit; they're not quite beating each other up anymore, but there's still some aggravation there! I like the idea that I don't have to decide NOW how I tackle this though. I can play around with other exercise and see how I feel with it. I think that, as long as I remain aware, I can back off if necessary. That was my feeling as I did a weights/cardio DVD this evening. I felt like doing it and was pleasantly surprised - I felt fitter than ever before! Usually I find it challenging and I'm left gasping for breath, but I kept bringing my focus back to my breath and all was calm!
Having said that, I do feel that I will shift away from traditional training more and more. Before UY, I'd been doing more 'natural' training (climbing trees, simple acrobatics, etc.) and this makes much more sense to me. I will continue to add additional bits to my regime as well as the UY but a) will cut back if I feel it's taking too much time or too much toll on my body and b) will stick as closely as possible to natural movement.
Now, I have 'Strength' tomorrow which I'm going to try in the morning. I have an early client, so I'll have to start at 6am to get finished in time. I may regret doing that DVD this evening...we shall see!
A quick note: A lovely yoga teacher and friend (Emma - yogawithemma.co.uk) sent me a message after reading my blog entry on 'Yin'. She explained that when she flows through this particular type of practice, she ensures that she's not taking stretches too deep and focuses more on the restrictions going on within her mind and working on releasing any resistance to the 'stillness'. Great advice - I will take Sunday's 'Yin' from that perspective :)
During this period of exploration, I'm finding myself in a bit of a quandry about how to approach this programme. I said in my first blog entry that I would give up my other exercise activities whilst doing UY if I found that it was detrimental. However, I feel as though I'm currently in no-mans land; I'll happily commit to the 108 days - I have already - but I'm unsure if I should keep going with the running, swimming and weights. I guess that the answer should be to let my body guide me, but I was interested to know what other members of the group were doing, so I asked the question on facebook: are you solely doing the yoga programme and nothing more?
There were lots of answers; most of the group are just doing the yoga. Some are doing cardio - a bit of running and/or walking - but no one mentioned continuing a weights regime. The general consensus is that the yoga is enough and there is certainly plenty to be getting on with! What struck me, though, was that several of the group have, in the past, been quite extreme exercisers, pushing their bodies to the limit. I'd put myself in that category too. The wonderful thing is that there has obviously been a shift in their mental approach to exercise, the emphasis on being kind to the body instead of pushing it and learning to enjoy other areas of life more rather than live for training. I think this is something that the programme teaches you.
So, at this relatively early stage in my journey, I'm still a bit unsure where the balance is. Funnily enough, I write endless programmes for my clients and know what they need, but I think my own mind and body are still battling a bit; they're not quite beating each other up anymore, but there's still some aggravation there! I like the idea that I don't have to decide NOW how I tackle this though. I can play around with other exercise and see how I feel with it. I think that, as long as I remain aware, I can back off if necessary. That was my feeling as I did a weights/cardio DVD this evening. I felt like doing it and was pleasantly surprised - I felt fitter than ever before! Usually I find it challenging and I'm left gasping for breath, but I kept bringing my focus back to my breath and all was calm!
Having said that, I do feel that I will shift away from traditional training more and more. Before UY, I'd been doing more 'natural' training (climbing trees, simple acrobatics, etc.) and this makes much more sense to me. I will continue to add additional bits to my regime as well as the UY but a) will cut back if I feel it's taking too much time or too much toll on my body and b) will stick as closely as possible to natural movement.
Now, I have 'Strength' tomorrow which I'm going to try in the morning. I have an early client, so I'll have to start at 6am to get finished in time. I may regret doing that DVD this evening...we shall see!
A quick note: A lovely yoga teacher and friend (Emma - yogawithemma.co.uk) sent me a message after reading my blog entry on 'Yin'. She explained that when she flows through this particular type of practice, she ensures that she's not taking stretches too deep and focuses more on the restrictions going on within her mind and working on releasing any resistance to the 'stillness'. Great advice - I will take Sunday's 'Yin' from that perspective :)
Thursday 4 July 2013
Day 8 - I've made the first week!
This will be a quick one! It's 9.24pm, I've only just got home and need to eat, go to bed and get up early to do 'Cardio'. Just done a slightly quick version of hardCORE - some is better than none!
So I've finished the first week! I can't believe how much I've learned already. The facebook group is like my new, extended family and they're all such a laugh - totally committed to the programme but still ready to have a joke which is great. Some of the photos they're posting are really inspiring - those who've been doing the programme a while seem super strong and flexible. Most of all though, they're still so keen. They haven't got bored after a couple of weeks - just shows what an incredible programme it is. And I'm not gushing - just stating a fact. I've been in the fitness industry a long time and have numerous fitness videos (I said I'd been doing it a long time!) and DVDs so I feel pretty qualified to comment. There is just something about this set of DVDs that is really powerful. Travis's experience and knowledge of yoga is obviously vast, his teaching seems to be able to reach everyone in a positive way, the music and set are fantastic - it's just a great production all around. However, at the core of it, there is also a real passion. I truly believe this programme was constructed with the aim of helping people rather than for fame and fortune. I challenge anyone to commit to this journey and not benefit from it mentally and physically.
I did 'Cross Train' for the second time this morning. I do like this one - like Travis says, it has a little of everything. I enjoyed it as much, if not more, than the first time around.
I'll meditate before I go to bed - doing the meditation at this time is helping me fall straight to sleep.
The meeting went well today, I think. Onwards and upwards :).
So I've finished the first week! I can't believe how much I've learned already. The facebook group is like my new, extended family and they're all such a laugh - totally committed to the programme but still ready to have a joke which is great. Some of the photos they're posting are really inspiring - those who've been doing the programme a while seem super strong and flexible. Most of all though, they're still so keen. They haven't got bored after a couple of weeks - just shows what an incredible programme it is. And I'm not gushing - just stating a fact. I've been in the fitness industry a long time and have numerous fitness videos (I said I'd been doing it a long time!) and DVDs so I feel pretty qualified to comment. There is just something about this set of DVDs that is really powerful. Travis's experience and knowledge of yoga is obviously vast, his teaching seems to be able to reach everyone in a positive way, the music and set are fantastic - it's just a great production all around. However, at the core of it, there is also a real passion. I truly believe this programme was constructed with the aim of helping people rather than for fame and fortune. I challenge anyone to commit to this journey and not benefit from it mentally and physically.
I did 'Cross Train' for the second time this morning. I do like this one - like Travis says, it has a little of everything. I enjoyed it as much, if not more, than the first time around.
I'll meditate before I go to bed - doing the meditation at this time is helping me fall straight to sleep.
The meeting went well today, I think. Onwards and upwards :).
Wednesday 3 July 2013
Day 7 - Chilled out
As a result of me raving about how I'm feeling transformed, I think the universe is testing me to find out my limits.
I was up at 5 this morning, although not for yoga which was quite disappointing :(. Wednesday is the only day (thank goodness) that I have to travel by train into Central London for a PT client. The client is great and works hard so that's not a problem, but I do not envy the people that have to travel in every day. The tube is just a mass of bodies all squashed together, invariably with the odour of last night's dinner (and alcohol consumption) hanging potently in the stuffy air. Lovely.
Today I felt much more calm and chilled than I normally do. My PT session ran on slightly longer than usual, so I knew I'd miss my usual train going home. Never mind, I'd get the next one. But, oh no, it's been cancelled. Ah well, the next one then. Oops, no - that's been cancelled too. Ok...the next one will be along soon - but wait a minute, they've changed the destinations and it won't be stopping at my stop. Hmmm. At this point, I surprised myself by being completely unagitated (is that a word?). I also listened to the reason the last train had been diverted - it was running late due to a passenger being unwell. I'm not sure I always believe the reasons (excuses) given why trains are delayed or cancelled, but this morning I wondered: What if that was true? What if someone on the train has been rushed to hospital? It's so easy to get caught up in how something will affect your day - I'm as guilty of that as anyone and it's not necessarily a horrible fault that we all have, it's just a result of the constant rush with which we're required to live our lives. Anyway, if the person is real, I hope they're ok.
So, I remained calm (is this the result of the yoga already?) - so calm, in fact, that when I eventually got on the train I was so engrossed in reading that I missed my stop! I had to phone David to come and pick me up from the next station along the route (which he did without complaint - he's good like that).
Once home, I did 'Mountain Pose, Pranyama and Meditation' for the first time. Once again, it wasn't what I was expecting but I really enjoyed it. I wasn't going to finish the meditation section but I'm glad I did. It made me cry - again! - what's up with that?! I felt very relaxed at the end though. I'm wondering how many people can actually do the full yoga squat - that's a tough one!
I'm still a sucker for cardio, so I went for a little run (nose breathing all the way) and did some weights later in the afternoon.
I have more time tomorrow so could do my yoga after my first client but I actually want to get up and do it early. David thinks I've gone crazy...maybe I have! So, I'll be up at 4.40am for my second round of 'Cross Training'. We also have a significant meeting tomorrow which could either turn into nothing at all or something really huge. Excited!
I was up at 5 this morning, although not for yoga which was quite disappointing :(. Wednesday is the only day (thank goodness) that I have to travel by train into Central London for a PT client. The client is great and works hard so that's not a problem, but I do not envy the people that have to travel in every day. The tube is just a mass of bodies all squashed together, invariably with the odour of last night's dinner (and alcohol consumption) hanging potently in the stuffy air. Lovely.
Today I felt much more calm and chilled than I normally do. My PT session ran on slightly longer than usual, so I knew I'd miss my usual train going home. Never mind, I'd get the next one. But, oh no, it's been cancelled. Ah well, the next one then. Oops, no - that's been cancelled too. Ok...the next one will be along soon - but wait a minute, they've changed the destinations and it won't be stopping at my stop. Hmmm. At this point, I surprised myself by being completely unagitated (is that a word?). I also listened to the reason the last train had been diverted - it was running late due to a passenger being unwell. I'm not sure I always believe the reasons (excuses) given why trains are delayed or cancelled, but this morning I wondered: What if that was true? What if someone on the train has been rushed to hospital? It's so easy to get caught up in how something will affect your day - I'm as guilty of that as anyone and it's not necessarily a horrible fault that we all have, it's just a result of the constant rush with which we're required to live our lives. Anyway, if the person is real, I hope they're ok.
So, I remained calm (is this the result of the yoga already?) - so calm, in fact, that when I eventually got on the train I was so engrossed in reading that I missed my stop! I had to phone David to come and pick me up from the next station along the route (which he did without complaint - he's good like that).
Once home, I did 'Mountain Pose, Pranyama and Meditation' for the first time. Once again, it wasn't what I was expecting but I really enjoyed it. I wasn't going to finish the meditation section but I'm glad I did. It made me cry - again! - what's up with that?! I felt very relaxed at the end though. I'm wondering how many people can actually do the full yoga squat - that's a tough one!
I'm still a sucker for cardio, so I went for a little run (nose breathing all the way) and did some weights later in the afternoon.
I have more time tomorrow so could do my yoga after my first client but I actually want to get up and do it early. David thinks I've gone crazy...maybe I have! So, I'll be up at 4.40am for my second round of 'Cross Training'. We also have a significant meeting tomorrow which could either turn into nothing at all or something really huge. Excited!
Tuesday 2 July 2013
Day 6 - Vitality and Breath of Fire - shower anyone?
So, I ended up getting out of bed at 4.40am to be able to complete 'Vitality' and get to my first client on time. Typing this now at 9pm, this morning has a surreal element to it - it seems a lifetime ago. I'm beginning to wonder if I actually did it or whether it was all a dream!
I quite enjoyed this DVD. There several active components but slower sections too so it had a good mix. I really sweated though for some reason! There's a lot of 'Breath of Fire' in this one. In case you don't know what that is, you basically 'pant' but through your nose. There's much hilarity surrounding the subject on facebook - either we're all just a particularly snotty bunch or Breath of Fire just stimulates that level of nasal clearance in everyone. Whatever it is, do not stand in front of someone doing Breath of Fire, just in case. It's pretty noisy too - on the second round Bo the cat walked in from the bedroom and stood staring at me from the doorway as if to say, "What the hell is going on in here? I am TRYING to SLEEP!"
Anyway, some thoughts. I was remembering today a Pilates convention that I attended some years ago. It was one of those events that incorporated three whole day's worth of seminars and workshops on different mind/body techniques. One of the seminars I chose was about Ayurveda yoga and I recall the teacher's advice: "Whatever your practice is, whether it's yoga or some other movement form, you need to stick to it vigilantly and practise every day, even if it means getting up at 4.30 in the morning". I remember being horrified at her suggestion - what was she thinking, 4.30 in the morning?! The woman was obviously crazy!
Yet, here I am gettting up earlier each day to make sure I fit my practice in, without fail. And what's more, it's not a chore but my favourite part of the day. The Ayurveda teacher was absolutely right; we live in an increasingly chaotic world where so many things are out of our hands that we can feel quite vulnerable but comitting to a practice every day can give us a sense of empowerment and order in our lives. My yoga mat is becoming my safe haven, my constant, my energy source in a way. A while ago I considered running every day but I've finally recognized what my body needs; I enjoy pushing my cardiovascular limits but my body needs a balance to this. I've ignored it for too long.
I'm amazed that I'm only on Day 6 and am already feeling such a physical release in my body. It's slowly beginning to influence my mind too. Sometimes what we resist is what we require the most.
I have to be up at 5am tomorrow just to get to a client tomorrow, so I won't be surfacing at 3.30am to do yoga - I have to draw the line somewhere! I plan to do 'Mountain Pose' when I get home at 9am though and can't wait!
I quite enjoyed this DVD. There several active components but slower sections too so it had a good mix. I really sweated though for some reason! There's a lot of 'Breath of Fire' in this one. In case you don't know what that is, you basically 'pant' but through your nose. There's much hilarity surrounding the subject on facebook - either we're all just a particularly snotty bunch or Breath of Fire just stimulates that level of nasal clearance in everyone. Whatever it is, do not stand in front of someone doing Breath of Fire, just in case. It's pretty noisy too - on the second round Bo the cat walked in from the bedroom and stood staring at me from the doorway as if to say, "What the hell is going on in here? I am TRYING to SLEEP!"
Anyway, some thoughts. I was remembering today a Pilates convention that I attended some years ago. It was one of those events that incorporated three whole day's worth of seminars and workshops on different mind/body techniques. One of the seminars I chose was about Ayurveda yoga and I recall the teacher's advice: "Whatever your practice is, whether it's yoga or some other movement form, you need to stick to it vigilantly and practise every day, even if it means getting up at 4.30 in the morning". I remember being horrified at her suggestion - what was she thinking, 4.30 in the morning?! The woman was obviously crazy!
Yet, here I am gettting up earlier each day to make sure I fit my practice in, without fail. And what's more, it's not a chore but my favourite part of the day. The Ayurveda teacher was absolutely right; we live in an increasingly chaotic world where so many things are out of our hands that we can feel quite vulnerable but comitting to a practice every day can give us a sense of empowerment and order in our lives. My yoga mat is becoming my safe haven, my constant, my energy source in a way. A while ago I considered running every day but I've finally recognized what my body needs; I enjoy pushing my cardiovascular limits but my body needs a balance to this. I've ignored it for too long.
I'm amazed that I'm only on Day 6 and am already feeling such a physical release in my body. It's slowly beginning to influence my mind too. Sometimes what we resist is what we require the most.
I have to be up at 5am tomorrow just to get to a client tomorrow, so I won't be surfacing at 3.30am to do yoga - I have to draw the line somewhere! I plan to do 'Mountain Pose' when I get home at 9am though and can't wait!
Monday 1 July 2013
Day Five 'Detox' - Pheweee!
Nothing like the 'Detox' DVD to get you going at 7 o'clock in the morning!
I really struggled to get out of bed for some reason, but knew that if I didn't get up, I wouldn't have time to do the DVD later in the day. By the time I got to my mat (after drinking some water, putting my contact lenses in, using the loo and feeding the cats - my 'pre warm up series'!) I was ready.
This DVD did not disappoint. After yesterday's unexpected 'just stretching' Yin DVD, this was back to full-on power yoga! It was very challenging at some points, especially the reverse half moon pose (not sure if that's what it's called) - this is one that seems entirely impossible to me. My body does NOT want to bend that way! However, I paid attention and didn't push it and know from my progression with yoga over the years that it will come with time and patience.
Going back to the Yin DVD, it seems that my fellow UY's generally found it difficult at first but ended up loving it, so I will persevere.
Today has been manic and my patience has been tested but I've tried to meet these problems with a calm, yogi mind. Yes, that will take quite a bit of practice! I'm increasingly focusing on my breathing throughout the day and it certainly shifts my outlook on situations. I had a great swim this afternoon - again, the more I practise breath control, the better I run and swim.
It's 8.20pm and I still have work to do but planning to be up early to do the 'Vitality' DVD at 5am as the rest of the day is busy with clients. I'm actually looking forward to it too and the group on facebook is so inspiring - people who've nearly finished the 108 are still so enthusiastic and enjoying it which is such an encouragement. Thanks guys :).
P.S. Did 'Hardcore' this evening - much better done separately I think, I had more energy to do more reps...
I really struggled to get out of bed for some reason, but knew that if I didn't get up, I wouldn't have time to do the DVD later in the day. By the time I got to my mat (after drinking some water, putting my contact lenses in, using the loo and feeding the cats - my 'pre warm up series'!) I was ready.
This DVD did not disappoint. After yesterday's unexpected 'just stretching' Yin DVD, this was back to full-on power yoga! It was very challenging at some points, especially the reverse half moon pose (not sure if that's what it's called) - this is one that seems entirely impossible to me. My body does NOT want to bend that way! However, I paid attention and didn't push it and know from my progression with yoga over the years that it will come with time and patience.
Going back to the Yin DVD, it seems that my fellow UY's generally found it difficult at first but ended up loving it, so I will persevere.
Today has been manic and my patience has been tested but I've tried to meet these problems with a calm, yogi mind. Yes, that will take quite a bit of practice! I'm increasingly focusing on my breathing throughout the day and it certainly shifts my outlook on situations. I had a great swim this afternoon - again, the more I practise breath control, the better I run and swim.
It's 8.20pm and I still have work to do but planning to be up early to do the 'Vitality' DVD at 5am as the rest of the day is busy with clients. I'm actually looking forward to it too and the group on facebook is so inspiring - people who've nearly finished the 108 are still so enthusiastic and enjoying it which is such an encouragement. Thanks guys :).
P.S. Did 'Hardcore' this evening - much better done separately I think, I had more energy to do more reps...
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