Is capitalism creating a “yoga monster?”Are we creating a culture of detachment rather than connection? Are the “yoga markets” saturated? Are the new businesses opening solving a problem, or creating one? Are we serving ourselves more than considering each other? How can we return to a state of interconnection, collaboration and harmony?  Too Much is Too MuchRecent conversations between myself and clients have included this statement. They've asked, "If I take more classes, will it make me better faster?" If only wellbeing worked that way. Yes, it's good to attend self care practices on a regular basis, but attending two or more classes in a row or classes every day of the week isn't necessarily going to heal or improve your circumstances more quickly. In fact, you could end up injuring yourself or creating other issues. When it comes to wellness, moderation and harmony are the keys. Your practice of self care is yours, alone, but finding your way can be easier if you’re given some guidance. Finding a guide who understands that your needs are unique and who is able to provide support and guidance based upon the philosophies of yoga may not be easy. The “yoga scene” has changed a lot. Yoga studios are beginning to feel more like gyms; offering hour long active movement classes. Gyms are offering “yoga classes” that incorporate weights or HIIT. People posing in postures on Instagram are getting paid to do so and garner huge followings. People are flocking to the hottest new studio and busiest classes. Are they doing so for themselves or to be seen? Are they practicing yoga? For whom are they doing this; for themselves or to be like someone else?  Yoga on Every CornerThere’s been a boom of people who have attended a yoga teacher training in the past few years. Not only are there more people claiming to be teachers, there are more who misunderstand what it means to be a yoga practitioner. Any yogi or yogini will tell you that the key to yoga can’t be found in an instagram photo. While the asana, or posturing has become a symbol for yoga, it is not the only aspect of the practice. You can attend classes during which you’ll be instructed through a variety of postures at wineries, libraries, on beaches, at breweries, in mental health facilities and even detention centers. While you don’t need to visit a yoga studio to engage in or experience the practices of yoga, there is a reason why they exist: they are space designed and intended for accessing yoga. From the interior design to the intentions set before and after every practice, a yoga studio is a special place with a unique energy. A yoga teacher is not a fitness instructor. A yoga class is not a workout. While you may move and sweat, the ultimate intention of yoga is to help you know yourself so you can effect changes to be your best self. Wellness, wellbeing and self care are the roots of the practice. After a yoga session you should feel as though you have done some serious self care and have a desire to continue to incorporate what you learned into your life.  Competition vs CollaborationI belong to a few groups that discuss the struggles of being a yoga studio owner and teachers. Asteya and ahimsa are two of the primary practices of yoga, but it seems as though they are being ignored and overlooked when it comes to the world of offering yoga through a business. Stories of teachers using studios without permission, collecting client information, undercutting each other, opening competing studios and more are plentiful. The overhead of running a studio includes not only rent, but also utilities, a booking system, credit card processing, advertising, marketing, payroll and more. Small studios run by teachers who have years of experience are struggling to stay in business as franchises and gym-like centers open nearby offering lower prices and with financial backing that can cover the overhead costs. Yoga is supposed to be a practice of collaboration and connection. It seems, though, that the business of offering yoga is creating a culture of competition. This is resulting in behaviors of mistrust, secrecy, isolation and separation.  Vinyasa, Hot, Iyengar, Goat. . .YogaYou can put any words you want together. You can put any things you want together; Milkshakes and french fries, wings and ranch, gin and tonic are all things that people enjoy. Not all things are good when brought together and, when combined, sometimes the roots or basis can be lost. For example; milk and lemon. When combined, the two yield buttermilk and there’s no way to go back to the originals. When the word yoga is added to an activity, sometimes the yogic aspect is lost. To say “vinyasa yoga” is to create union through intentional sequence. Hot yoga is creating union through heat. Iyengar yoga means union through Iyengar (what?) and goat yoga is to create union through goats (uh, huh?). Is this making sense? We could keep going and say everything is yoga, which is true, if you practice yoga, but just saying something is, doesn’t make it so. So, maybe you’re thinking about practicing french fry yoga, chicken yoga and wine yoga. Everyone should practice in their own way, but I just don’t think that union with fries, spirits and wine is going to help you live your best life.  The Right Yoga How do you know if the yoga class you're attending is the right one for you? Ask yourself the following questions: Is the instruction clear, varied and easy to follow? Does the instructor/teacher/guide pay attention to my needs? Am I being given guidance to pay attention to more than my body?
If your answer to these questions is “yes,” then you’ve found a good teacher and practice. Yoga classes should include movement that directs your body in every direction, is accessible for everyone attending, provides variations for different needs and suggestions for connecting with your body, breath, energy, emotions and mind. The root work of yoga is yuj: to yoke or join. To practice yoga is to access yoga. How do we do so? Through observation, direction, body awareness, intentional breathing, focus, mindfulness and integration. Wherever you begin and whatever path you move upon, if you’re engaging in these practices, you’re moving toward yoga. Returning to the original question; is there too much yoga? I’ve begun to wonder if maybe there isn’t enough.
0 Comments
At Lake Tahoe Yoga our motto is "Practice Yoga Everywhere." Yoga is what you do beyond your mat and while out in the world. Join us to learn more.  Yoga is Time with Loved OnesAttending a scheduled class at a Yoga studio is a great way to be guided in movement and be around others who enjoy the same thing. If you're looking to connect with family or friends a Private Yoga Session is the best option. It reduces the variety of aspects that make people uncomfortable. The teacher is there for you, there are no strangers to compare to, you get to choose when and where to practice. 1) You all know each other 2) You can share your private jokes, converse and enjoy each other's company 3) The session is catered to your wants and needs Yoga is Body FitnessWe use the hashtag "more than poses" in just about every social post we create. This is because we know that Yoga is not limited to the postures you see people doing on mats, or on Instagram. Any physical activity that keeps your body fit and allows you to clear you head is Yoga. Of course, combining the postures described by Yoga Asana practitioners to compliment whatever physical activities you enjoy can make a significant difference. Be sure to stretch before and after aerobic activities to keep your muscles happy and your body moving well.  Yoga is a Long WalkThere is beauty all around you. Give yourself the opportunity to enjoy the space in which you live. The practice of Tantra Yoga includes feeling passionate about all things, including the mundane. A slow walk around your apartment or home may reveal things to you that you typically ignore. Take a slow walk around your building or neighborhood. Cruise around the edge of your property. Do your best to view these areas as though they are unfamiliar. Enjoy a long walk. Yoga is Self CareSpa treatments are nice, but the best way to get to know yourself is to take care of your self. When we wash our hair, trim our own nails, apply a face mask, even brush our teeth we are spending time gazing upon our own bodies. The more we do so, the more familiar they become. Treat yourself to a deeply moisturizing hair treatment. Soak your feet in essential oils. Apply your own paraffin to soften your hands. Paint your toe and finger nails in crazy colors. Do it for yourself and to get to know your self. Yoga is Knowing Your SigntYou don't need to be an oracle to use cards, crystals, feathers and incense. Maybe you like to collect pretty rocks. Perhaps you're into plants. Some of us look to the stars for guidance. You already have practices that you enjoy, make your day a little better, and even though they might be considered weird by others, they provide you with some comfort. From making your bed a certain way to having fresh flowers in the house, we all engage in practices that give us peace of mind. Stick with whatever it is that serves you. If you want to explore other practices, we can probably steer you in the right direction.  To learn more about how to develop practices that can help you to direct your life toward health, healing and harmony, follow @laketahoeyogastudio, book a Private Yoga Session, or reach out to Jenay to begin Realignment Coaching practices.
Simple ways to practice Yoga without the guidance of a teacher. 1. Establish ConsistencyWhen we don’t have the call of the alarm to wake us, or our schedule shifts unexpectedly, it can become difficult to retain a consistent schedule. Many of us take advantage of the lack of responsibility we have on the weekends or during vacation to sleep in, float through the day, and generally feel the freedom to avoid tasks. Yoga teaches two practices; do not get lost in habit (karma), and remain consistent in your practices (tapas). When we begin doing something without awareness it has become habit. Do you think about which hand you use to hold your toothbrush? When was the last time you had to think before picking up a pencil to write? When you get in the car do you think about where the key goes? I’m sure you can think of many other habits that you have developed over time. Consistency requires consideration, awareness and intention. It is the constant practice of thinking about what you are doing and choosing to do that which serves yourself and others. Sometimes it is as simple as choosing to bag your own groceries. It can be the establishment of a time to go outside each day no matter where you are or what you are doing. The practice of consistency requires that you consciously choose to act rather than relying upon that which comes easily.  2. Breathe FirstA long, deep inhale and exhale can be the difference between throwing something across the room and walking quietly out the door. Begin a practice of drawing in and releasing one or more deep breaths before entering a room, a conversation, or engaging in a new activity. Not only does a deep breath help to calm your mind and body, it also creates a shift in focus. It can give you to pause and a moment to consider and reflect upon what is happening so that you can address what’s to come next with a more calm and intentional approach.  Get S$!t DoneCreating a list of tasks to complete and checking off, disposing of, deleting, etc. that list as each is completed can be incredibly satisfying. Sometimes, when we feel like we have all the time in the world, we will fill in that time with busy-work or distractions. When a “to-do” list is available, it can help you to focus and address that which needs to get done. Rather than spend a half hour checking out your social feeds, you could be scheduling a dozen posts. Instead of watching videos on Youtube, you could be repairing that hole in your pants.  Enjoy The Little ThingsI love that this is one of the Zomblieland rules. From the comfort of your sofa there are countless little things to value. First and foremost is the fact that you have a couch to sit on. I can remember when I moved into my first apartment and we had no couch. I can also recall when we moved into our house and we had no furniture at all. A couch is a wonderful thing! For those of us who reside in Tahoe South we get to enjoy the magic of living in a forest. City dwellers get to enjoy the majesty of architecture. Whether you enjoy peace and quiet or hustle and bustle, the sounds of silence or the laughter of children, take a moment to enjoy that which you have chosen to have surrounding you. The time you take to enjoy the things that bring you joy and peace pays off later. When you are in a stressful situation, dealing with negative energy, trying to problem solve, or being a friend when someone is in need you can reflect back upon these things. Recalling them can help you remain more calm and collected by providing your mind with a shift in perspective. If you are interested in learning more about the philosophies and practices of Yoga as well as how to transition into a Yogic Lifestyle contact us at [email protected] or call the studio at (775)580-7224.
Always Remember Where You WereWhen I first moved to Tahoe my sister would call me up and say, "You live in a postcard, I bet you forget that it's beautiful out there." Not for a moment.  Never have I forgotten to enjoy the beauty of our lake, the mountains and the freshness of each breath I take in. What I have done is the same thing that I did in Boston. I have forgotten to take the time to see my home in the way that the thousands of visitors do; as an outsider. Keep ExploringThere are so many opportunities to experience the lake. Hiking Tallac or Freel, heading up to Eagle Falls, experiencing the views from the Gondola or riding the trolley are just a few. This spring, I went to Valhalla for the first time. We hit up the Renaissance Faire and I plan on going to the Gatsby Fest (who doesn't want to dress up like it's the 20's and dance with their knees?). Every year there are changes, events that are added and some that go come to an end. What remains a constant is the lake and the many people who live here and work to create new and interesting opportunities to experience all that Tahoe has to offer. For some ideas of other activities to engage in, check out what Redfin gathered from some of us who love Lake Tahoe.  Be AroundYoga means Union. How can we find union if we aren't connecting with everyone, everything and every experience available? Get off your smart phone and look around. Enjoy the experience of hearing conversations and engaging in one. Connect with the people around you. Recognize the mirrors they provide. See yourself as an outsider. Don't just look around, be around. Be a part of this place we call home and show your support for all the hard working business owners who have made Tahoe what it is. Take the time to practice Yoga everywhere.
|
Archives
February 2023
Categories
All
|
RSS Feed
© Lake Tahoe Yoga LTD 2020
Lake Tahoe Yoga Studio, School & Retreats
Discover Your Self ™
Zephyr Cove, NV, 89448
(775)580-7224
Design, Graphics and Photos by Jenay
Except as permitted by the copyright law applicable to you, you may not reproduce or communicate any of the content on this website, including files downloadable from this website, without the permission of the copyright owner.
The US Copyright Act allows certain uses of content from the internet without the copyright owner’s permission. This includes uses by educational institutions and by Commonwealth and State governments, provided fair compensation is paid. For more information, see https://www.copyright.gov/title17/title17.pdf.
The owners of copyright in the content on this website may receive compensation for the use of their content by educational institutions and governments, including from licensing schemes managed by Copyright Agency.
We may change these terms of use from time to time. Check before re-using any content from this website.
Lake Tahoe Yoga Studio, School & Retreats
Discover Your Self ™
Zephyr Cove, NV, 89448
(775)580-7224
Design, Graphics and Photos by Jenay
Except as permitted by the copyright law applicable to you, you may not reproduce or communicate any of the content on this website, including files downloadable from this website, without the permission of the copyright owner.
The US Copyright Act allows certain uses of content from the internet without the copyright owner’s permission. This includes uses by educational institutions and by Commonwealth and State governments, provided fair compensation is paid. For more information, see https://www.copyright.gov/title17/title17.pdf.
The owners of copyright in the content on this website may receive compensation for the use of their content by educational institutions and governments, including from licensing schemes managed by Copyright Agency.
We may change these terms of use from time to time. Check before re-using any content from this website.
Lake Tahoe Yoga. Tahoe's premier Yoga studio offering classes, private sessions, paddle yoga. beach yoga, baby and me, prenatal, alignment, vinyasa, athletic, workout, fitness, stillwater, Mindbody, teacher training, Yoga alliance, yoga therapy, bachelorette party, yoga instruction, om, aum, classes, fitness, wellness, active, exercise, athlete, stretch, flexibility, balance, mindful, meditation, restoration, yin, nidra, relaxation, breathing, pranayama, yoga sutra, yamas, niyamas, satya, ahimsa, brahmacharya, ishvara pranidhana, avidya, asteya, tapas, svadhyaya, jnana, aparigraha, wellness, outdoor yoga, corporate yoga, mountain pose, downward dog, asana, practice, tantra, hatha, raja, rajahatha, workshop, yoga workshop, vacation, ayurveda, pitta, vata, kapha, yoga om, omni, yoga shala, yoga for health, accessible yoga, partner yoga, yoga for athletes, yoga for fitness, flexibility, health, wellness, mindfulness, private yoga teacher, private yoga classes, private yoga instruction, downward dog, yoga streches, yoga for kids, yoga Tahoe, south lake Tahoe yoga, south Tahoe yoga, yoga south Tahoe, class pass, wedding yoga, senior yoga, healing, healthcare, yoga near me