Yes, the rumors are true. I am moving with my family to Santa Cruz!
It is a really good thing for my family, but with change, comes, well... changes! And change is not always easy. While I am very excited for and proud of my husband in his new job, and am excited about being close to nature, and in a town that I love (it's where I went to college), I am also sad to be further from a lot of my family here in Los Angeles. And further from some of my closest friends. And further from my yoga home.
GODA has been a huge part of my life for almost 11 years, first as a student and then as a teacher. GODA has been a constant for me in a time in my life that I didn't feel anchored to much of anything. I found this incredibly grounding force through Cheryl's classes (as well as other teachers there) and through the GODA community. But the studio itself has been nothing short of sacred to me. Last year I emerged from a break from yoga teaching with the GODA Yoga Teacher Training and was so lucky to have spent that time with Cheryl, Kate Duyn Cariati, and the trainees in my group. My little Sangha. I will always cherish them. They have all been so supportive of me as a teacher, a mother, a friend, and colleague - it's rare to find a group that can see you as a whole person like that. And I really want to send a special thank you to Cheryl for nurturing that wholeness in me, for being so supportive of me, even when it meant I had to be there less for you. Your compassion and generosity has been such a gift to me. So thank you to the end of my days.
And thank you to Kate for your love and teachings, and to Jules Hogan Sahay for stepping up when I had to stand down, and for welcoming me back and working together to find a balance and share!
And I have to thank my students. I have been so honored to teach so many beautiful and amazing people at GODA and in Los Angeles. I have laughed with you, cried, moved, danced, and breathed through it all with you and feel so very blessed for these past 11 years here. I will take pieces of you with me into my life because being with you, having the honor of being your teacher, has changed me, profoundly, and hopefully I have left some of me with you as well.
I know that change is hard, but change is good too. It makes us grow, it challenges us to stretch and to get out of our habits and reawaken, to see the world anew. I can't wait to see what is in store for us all!
I know that you will be in good hands at GODA... Maire-Rose is taking over Tues and Thursday mornings, Raja is taking over Thursday evenings, and Cheryl is taking over my lovely Sundays. AND I know that I will be back frequently, and hopefully will get to teach a surprise workshop or two when I do (I'll post it on my blog so sign up, if you haven't already, to get updates!) So it is not goodbye, it is until we meet again.
In the meantime, come see me! Come to class, celebrate this lovely ride with me in my last classes Sunday the 31st of May, Tuesday June 2nd, and Thursday June 4th. In the meantime, I send you all love and light and look forward to our paths crossing as they may!
Peace,
April KirkHart
www.workofhearyoga.com
Wednesday, May 27, 2015
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
Subs on Thurs, May 21st - come check them out!!!
Hello my beloved GODA yogis!
I know, it's been a while since I posted. Well, pretty soon I'll be posting more. But some of you were wondering about my subs this week, so I'll keep it short!
Tomorrow, Thursday May 21st, I will have a sub for my 9:30-11am flow class. I thought it was going to be Cheryl, but it's going to be Maire-Rose! She is a lovely teacher, with beautiful sequencing and I hear she has the voice of an angel. So please come take the class with her and tell me what I missed!
Thursday evening, my beginner class from 5:30-6:55pm will be subbed by Lucia Yamuy. She has long been a student of mine, and recently graduated from the GODA Yoga Teacher Training, which is no easy feat. She has warm, grounding energy and I am thrilled she is standing in for me. I invite you to enjoy her gentle spirit and tell me all about it when I get back.
MORE announcements to come in the future. But for now, I must go to bed!
Peace and see you soon!
April KirkHart
www.workofheartyoga.com
I know, it's been a while since I posted. Well, pretty soon I'll be posting more. But some of you were wondering about my subs this week, so I'll keep it short!
Tomorrow, Thursday May 21st, I will have a sub for my 9:30-11am flow class. I thought it was going to be Cheryl, but it's going to be Maire-Rose! She is a lovely teacher, with beautiful sequencing and I hear she has the voice of an angel. So please come take the class with her and tell me what I missed!
Thursday evening, my beginner class from 5:30-6:55pm will be subbed by Lucia Yamuy. She has long been a student of mine, and recently graduated from the GODA Yoga Teacher Training, which is no easy feat. She has warm, grounding energy and I am thrilled she is standing in for me. I invite you to enjoy her gentle spirit and tell me all about it when I get back.
MORE announcements to come in the future. But for now, I must go to bed!
Peace and see you soon!
April KirkHart
www.workofheartyoga.com
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Where to find peace in a world turned upside down?
My dear friends, the past few weeks, or months have been hard ones. The world is in upheaval. I have felt it listening to the news, I have seen the images splashed across the media, I have friends I fear for abroad. I have seen it on the streets where my children live and go to school, I have seen anger and violence in traffic patterns, criss-crossing my daily life. I have felt it in my heart for children everywhere. I fear sometimes for my own. And now I feel the sadness for a man lost in his own pain, sadness and anger, who was so widely known and yet felt so alone.
How do we go about our days? How do we do the things we normally do? How does the world not stop turning, how does life continue when there is so much heaviness?
I've been wrestling with these questions lately myself. As a mother, I often do not have the luxury of grieving or processing these things upon their arrival in my life. My children carry a momentum with them that usually sweeps me away with them. But the other night I sat up, way too late for my own good, reading this lovely book, "The Yamas and the Niyamas: Exploring Yoga's Ethical Practice," by Deborah Adele. And I came across a quote that I think has huge implications for us as individuals, but also for people, societies, our world at large. I wanted to share it with you all. I have never heard anything so challenging, so true, so inexplicably simple and yet complicated. It is the work we all need to do. I hope it will resonate with you.
The author, Adele, in her second chapter quotes a statement made by Etty Hillesum, a young holocaust victim:
"Ultimately we have just one moral duty:
to reclaim large areas of peace in ourselves,
more and more peace,
and to reflect it towards others.
And the more peace there is in us,
the more peace there will also be
in our troubled world."
Sending out as much love as I can,
-April
How do we go about our days? How do we do the things we normally do? How does the world not stop turning, how does life continue when there is so much heaviness?
I've been wrestling with these questions lately myself. As a mother, I often do not have the luxury of grieving or processing these things upon their arrival in my life. My children carry a momentum with them that usually sweeps me away with them. But the other night I sat up, way too late for my own good, reading this lovely book, "The Yamas and the Niyamas: Exploring Yoga's Ethical Practice," by Deborah Adele. And I came across a quote that I think has huge implications for us as individuals, but also for people, societies, our world at large. I wanted to share it with you all. I have never heard anything so challenging, so true, so inexplicably simple and yet complicated. It is the work we all need to do. I hope it will resonate with you.
The author, Adele, in her second chapter quotes a statement made by Etty Hillesum, a young holocaust victim:
"Ultimately we have just one moral duty:
to reclaim large areas of peace in ourselves,
more and more peace,
and to reflect it towards others.
And the more peace there is in us,
the more peace there will also be
in our troubled world."
Sending out as much love as I can,
-April
Monday, July 21, 2014
Back to teaching and loving it!
I can't tell you how good it feels to be teaching again!
I have missed being able to share what I love and live in yoga. And I forgot how much fun it is to teach, not just to practice. What makes it so fun? The students, of course!
For Jules' regular and very loyal students, it's fun to see them experience a new teacher and to adjust to a new situation. Think about how you feel when you go to a class that you love, only to find some stranger at the front about to teach. It's hard! Even for teachers! We try to practice Samtosha, acceptance, taking what is, whatever presents itself... but it's hard not to build expectations, especially for something that is generally consistent and to which you've grown accustomed. But as a teacher, it's so rich to watch a student go from maybe a little disappointment (or a lot!), and hesitation, to full blown letting-go-and-releasing-mode in a single class, and it is a pretty special thing.
I forgot how amazing it is to watch someone totally new to Yoga, experience the breath, the poses for the first time. I've watched people open up, both literally in their bodies, and I can read it on their faces. And maybe I've opened up too, after taking a break, and seeing my own practice from a different perspective, heck, teaching from a different perspective.
Change can be hard, but it can also be amazing, and wonderful. And that's just where I am right now. In a world that seems to be in major upheaval right now, I am really happy to be out there, trying to help people stay open, to find peace and calm, to try to generate a sense of unity and grounding. And I'm so grateful to Jules, her students, and to GODA Yoga for giving me the opportunity to do so.
So, if you haven't heard, or want to know when I'm teaching here's the schedule:
Tuesday and Thursdays, Beginner, 5:30pm -6:55pm
Fridays, Beginner, 6:30-8:00pm
Saturdays, Level One, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Sundays, Beginner, 11:00-12:30pm
GODA Yoga
9711 Washington Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
cross street/ Watseka and Culver Blvd.
(310) 287-1255
There's 2 hours free parking at the garage on Watseka!
Come get your yoga on with me!
Peace!
I have missed being able to share what I love and live in yoga. And I forgot how much fun it is to teach, not just to practice. What makes it so fun? The students, of course!
For Jules' regular and very loyal students, it's fun to see them experience a new teacher and to adjust to a new situation. Think about how you feel when you go to a class that you love, only to find some stranger at the front about to teach. It's hard! Even for teachers! We try to practice Samtosha, acceptance, taking what is, whatever presents itself... but it's hard not to build expectations, especially for something that is generally consistent and to which you've grown accustomed. But as a teacher, it's so rich to watch a student go from maybe a little disappointment (or a lot!), and hesitation, to full blown letting-go-and-releasing-mode in a single class, and it is a pretty special thing.
I forgot how amazing it is to watch someone totally new to Yoga, experience the breath, the poses for the first time. I've watched people open up, both literally in their bodies, and I can read it on their faces. And maybe I've opened up too, after taking a break, and seeing my own practice from a different perspective, heck, teaching from a different perspective.
Change can be hard, but it can also be amazing, and wonderful. And that's just where I am right now. In a world that seems to be in major upheaval right now, I am really happy to be out there, trying to help people stay open, to find peace and calm, to try to generate a sense of unity and grounding. And I'm so grateful to Jules, her students, and to GODA Yoga for giving me the opportunity to do so.
So, if you haven't heard, or want to know when I'm teaching here's the schedule:
Tuesday and Thursdays, Beginner, 5:30pm -6:55pm
Fridays, Beginner, 6:30-8:00pm
Saturdays, Level One, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Sundays, Beginner, 11:00-12:30pm
GODA Yoga
9711 Washington Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
cross street/ Watseka and Culver Blvd.
(310) 287-1255
There's 2 hours free parking at the garage on Watseka!
Come get your yoga on with me!
Peace!
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
My new, temporary, schedule at GODA Yoga!
Here it is! My new schedule at GODA Yoga in the heart of downtown Culver City, as I fill in for Jules Hogan-Sahay while she is on maternity leave. So hurry up and come do some yoga with me and spread the word!
Tuesday and Thursdays, Beginner, 5:30pm -6:55pm
Fridays, Beginner, 6:30-8:00pm
Saturdays, Level One, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Sundays, Beginner, 11:00-12:30pm
GODA Yoga
9711 Washington Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
cross street/ Watseka and Culver Blvd.
(310) 287-1255
And all the beginner classes can be prenatal appropriate. I have lots of experience and training in that department!
Peace, and hope to see you there!
-April
Tuesday and Thursdays, Beginner, 5:30pm -6:55pm
Fridays, Beginner, 6:30-8:00pm
Saturdays, Level One, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Sundays, Beginner, 11:00-12:30pm
GODA Yoga
9711 Washington Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
cross street/ Watseka and Culver Blvd.
(310) 287-1255
And all the beginner classes can be prenatal appropriate. I have lots of experience and training in that department!
Peace, and hope to see you there!
-April
Monday, July 7, 2014
I'm Teaching at GODA again starting Sun, July 13!
Hello? Is anyone still out there?
I know I've been out for a long while. Well, I had another baby, then I had to wait to have surgery (see previous posts), then I had surgery, then had to wait a year or so to heal... Since then, I re-immersed myself in the world of yoga at my favorite place, GODA! I took the 2014 teacher training to dust off the old yogic mind and create a little Satsang for myself, and boy did I ever.
My trainee buddies were amazing, uplifting, lovely people and I am so grateful to Cheryl Moss and Kate Duyn Cariati for giving me the opportunity to heal, re-strengthen, and most of all, to be a part of that wonderful group.
So, now that I'm all back together again, I have the privilege of repaying the favor that Jules Hogan-Sahay granted me by taking over my classes and keeping them while I was out... I am going to start teaching for many (not all) of her classes while she prepares to go on maternity leave, and only until she's ready to come back. I repeat, I will be taking over many of her classes TEMPORARILY while she is on maternity leave.
I will be starting this Sunday, July 13th, teaching her beginner class from 11:00am - 12:30, and will slowly start teaching more of her beginner and level one classes as she is ready for me to take them. I will keep you posted via my blog.
But prepare yourselves. Jules has an INCREDIBLE following, and space in her class is so very coveted, which is absolutely a tribute to what a gifted teacher she is. I will strive to serve well in her absence. In other words, if you want a spot in class get there early!
I can't wait to see you all and move and breathe together!
Jai!
I know I've been out for a long while. Well, I had another baby, then I had to wait to have surgery (see previous posts), then I had surgery, then had to wait a year or so to heal... Since then, I re-immersed myself in the world of yoga at my favorite place, GODA! I took the 2014 teacher training to dust off the old yogic mind and create a little Satsang for myself, and boy did I ever.
My trainee buddies were amazing, uplifting, lovely people and I am so grateful to Cheryl Moss and Kate Duyn Cariati for giving me the opportunity to heal, re-strengthen, and most of all, to be a part of that wonderful group.
So, now that I'm all back together again, I have the privilege of repaying the favor that Jules Hogan-Sahay granted me by taking over my classes and keeping them while I was out... I am going to start teaching for many (not all) of her classes while she prepares to go on maternity leave, and only until she's ready to come back. I repeat, I will be taking over many of her classes TEMPORARILY while she is on maternity leave.
I will be starting this Sunday, July 13th, teaching her beginner class from 11:00am - 12:30, and will slowly start teaching more of her beginner and level one classes as she is ready for me to take them. I will keep you posted via my blog.
But prepare yourselves. Jules has an INCREDIBLE following, and space in her class is so very coveted, which is absolutely a tribute to what a gifted teacher she is. I will strive to serve well in her absence. In other words, if you want a spot in class get there early!
I can't wait to see you all and move and breathe together!
Jai!
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
April is back at GODA... for a little
Dear All, or should I say Anyone still checking?
I'm going to be teaching for Jules Hogan's Sunday beginner classes at GODA coming up, starting THIS SUNDAY July 1st!!!
I know, I know, it's been a while. For sure. I had another baby. She is rad, by the way. Her name is Alex Mae. Bright red hair, super cute, awesome sleeper, kinda chubby. But I've been pretty busy being a mom. Since I was brilliant enough to have my kids almost 2 whole years apart, I got to have a newborn and do potty training all at the same time. You get the picture.
In the meantime, my ab muscles separated so far apart during pregnancy this time that I still look like I am six months pregnant, and have had the joyous experience of having no core strength (which really comes in handy for, let's see... EVERYTHING.) No it is not because I had a home birth (which is so weird that someone even thought that had anything to do with it), and no I did not gain an unreasonable amount of weight, and no, my baby wasn't gigantic (she wasn't little either though!) I guess it was just what happened. My own little yogic curveball from the universe. I have to have surgery to fix it, but I am not quite ready for that. Long story...
So forgive me for being away so long, and forgive me even more for not blogging or talking much about it. It's been really hard for me personally, and as a yoga instructor. What are the odds, right?! Regardless, being a mom has been my first priority, which I (mostly) love, and I don't think I could have done it without taking some major time off.
I am truly grateful to Cheryl and Jules for taking over my classes and being so understanding, and to the whole GODA community for being so lovely about it all. What I am ready for, is to teach some yoga at GODA and repay the favor to Jules Hogan by subbing some of her Sunday classes in July and August. That's right, you heard me, I'm coming back to teach (a little), ab muscles be damned! Besides, I've missed you all a lot and I just can't stay away from GODA!
So listen up, this is the schedule. Feel free to spread the word.
Sunday, July 1, beginner class, 11-12:30
Sunday, July 22, beginner class, 11-12:30
Sunday, July 29, beginner class, 11-12:30
Sunday, August 5, beginner class, 11-12:30
I hope I see you guys there!!!
Peace,
April KirkHart
www.workofheartyoga.com
www.godayoga.com
I'm going to be teaching for Jules Hogan's Sunday beginner classes at GODA coming up, starting THIS SUNDAY July 1st!!!
I know, I know, it's been a while. For sure. I had another baby. She is rad, by the way. Her name is Alex Mae. Bright red hair, super cute, awesome sleeper, kinda chubby. But I've been pretty busy being a mom. Since I was brilliant enough to have my kids almost 2 whole years apart, I got to have a newborn and do potty training all at the same time. You get the picture.
In the meantime, my ab muscles separated so far apart during pregnancy this time that I still look like I am six months pregnant, and have had the joyous experience of having no core strength (which really comes in handy for, let's see... EVERYTHING.) No it is not because I had a home birth (which is so weird that someone even thought that had anything to do with it), and no I did not gain an unreasonable amount of weight, and no, my baby wasn't gigantic (she wasn't little either though!) I guess it was just what happened. My own little yogic curveball from the universe. I have to have surgery to fix it, but I am not quite ready for that. Long story...
So forgive me for being away so long, and forgive me even more for not blogging or talking much about it. It's been really hard for me personally, and as a yoga instructor. What are the odds, right?! Regardless, being a mom has been my first priority, which I (mostly) love, and I don't think I could have done it without taking some major time off.
I am truly grateful to Cheryl and Jules for taking over my classes and being so understanding, and to the whole GODA community for being so lovely about it all. What I am ready for, is to teach some yoga at GODA and repay the favor to Jules Hogan by subbing some of her Sunday classes in July and August. That's right, you heard me, I'm coming back to teach (a little), ab muscles be damned! Besides, I've missed you all a lot and I just can't stay away from GODA!
So listen up, this is the schedule. Feel free to spread the word.
Sunday, July 1, beginner class, 11-12:30
Sunday, July 22, beginner class, 11-12:30
Sunday, July 29, beginner class, 11-12:30
Sunday, August 5, beginner class, 11-12:30
I hope I see you guys there!!!
Peace,
April KirkHart
www.workofheartyoga.com
www.godayoga.com
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
GODA Yoga's 10 Year Anniversary Party!
Dear All,
I know I've been away for a while, and I haven't blogged in forever, but I wanted to let you know a few things:
My newest daughter, Alex Mabel KirkHart is healthy and amazing! She's 3 months already. I can't believe how time flies when you are so sleep deprived! Really, though, I'm enjoying her fully and we are all doing well. I have my hands full with both girls, so it may be a while before I'm back teaching. However, that can't keep me away from GODA altogether!
That leads me to my second important notice: GODA Yoga's 10 year anniversary party! Woo wooooo! (See invitation below!)
You should come. Seriously. And bring a friend. I'm going to!
Peace, and more musings in the future. When I get more than 2 hours sleep in a row!
April
-------
Please join us for
GODA YOGA'S
10 Year ANNIVERSARY PARTY....
GODA Yoga
is a dream come true
and continues to serve my vision
of loving community utilizing yoga practices
to create personal and collective transformation.
I am forever grateful for
your presence in our community.
Each one of you brings a luminous energy to our tribe.
Thank you!
In the spirit of sharing the joy of one another
and
celebrating GODA
and YOU!!!
Join Us...
Saturday, October 22nd at 7pm
...light fare from Akasha, wine, and music.
Come by to say hello, dance and share your presence in our community. Children, families, beloveds and friends welcome.
(please send a response email if you will be coming!)
I know I've been away for a while, and I haven't blogged in forever, but I wanted to let you know a few things:
My newest daughter, Alex Mabel KirkHart is healthy and amazing! She's 3 months already. I can't believe how time flies when you are so sleep deprived! Really, though, I'm enjoying her fully and we are all doing well. I have my hands full with both girls, so it may be a while before I'm back teaching. However, that can't keep me away from GODA altogether!
That leads me to my second important notice: GODA Yoga's 10 year anniversary party! Woo wooooo! (See invitation below!)
You should come. Seriously. And bring a friend. I'm going to!
Peace, and more musings in the future. When I get more than 2 hours sleep in a row!
April
-------
Please join us for
GODA YOGA'S
10 Year ANNIVERSARY PARTY....
GODA Yoga
is a dream come true
and continues to serve my vision
of loving community utilizing yoga practices
to create personal and collective transformation.
I am forever grateful for
your presence in our community.
Each one of you brings a luminous energy to our tribe.
Thank you!
In the spirit of sharing the joy of one another
and
celebrating GODA
and YOU!!!
Join Us...
Saturday, October 22nd at 7pm
...light fare from Akasha, wine, and music.
Come by to say hello, dance and share your presence in our community. Children, families, beloveds and friends welcome.
(please send a response email if you will be coming!)
Friday, August 13, 2010
The Accident...
So... as many of you may have noticed I've had a few subs lately... thought you might want to know why!
My husband, Casey, was in a rather serious accident recently involving his bike and another car. Both my husband and I have been cyclists since we did the California AIDS Ride 6 back in 1999 (we rode from San Francisco to Los Angeles and raised money for HIV and AIDS services) but my husband has kept up with his training over the years better than I!
Just over a month ago, Casey was on a ride, training for a bike/swim race, and was on his way home coming through Marina Del Rey. It was a light 25 mile ride for Casey, and he was on his way to meet me and our almost 1 year old daughter, Ruby Jo, at the park.
In any case, there he was, in the right lane, fully in accordance with all laws pertaining to vehicles in the state of California, riding along at about 10 mph when a car passed him on his left. The car then proceeded through an intersection and turned right suddenly without signaling or, apparently, without checking over her shoulder or mirrors and cut Casey off in a way that forced him to plow into the back of the car and then fall onto his left side. The impact was so strong that Casey shattered his left elbow and rammed his femur bone into his hip socket causing multiple fractures of the hip (acetabulum, to be exact).
So, I got a voicemail from Casey as he was being loaded into an ambulance telling me that he was alive, but in a pretty serious accident and he wasn't sure where they were taking him.
As I chased Ruby Jo through the park, i saw a light on my cell phone and listened to the message. You can imagine my reaction. No? Well, then let me paint the picture: Me, running at top speed in my flip flops, pushing my very concerned almost-toddler in her stroller and racing back to our house. I packed her diaper bag, had her in the car and headed to the general area of the accident in 2 minutes flat awaiting a report of which hospital I should actually head to.
After 2 serious surgeries involving many metal plates and screws and special surgical tables to help pull my husband apart so they could put him back together again, Casey spent 1.5 weeks in the hospital and came home only to sleep in a hospital bed in our living room for almost a month. He is, for the time being, limited to getting around in a wheel chair and, for very short trips, some special crutches for at least another few weeks.
He's been out of work and on medications, has had home and in-hospital physical and occupational therapy sessions, blood draws, and consultations. It took a month to get rid of the hospital bed, and for him to get back some of his independence. He has had an impressively positive attitude about his recovery and I love him for it.
Over the past month, I've had to ask for help from others to sub my classes for me, or babysit for me, or bring us food, etc. I have had some wonderful support from some very unexpected people, and have been surprised by people's reactions, both good and bad. Mostly, I have been grateful that my husband is alive (it could have been his head after all - and thank god for helmets!), and that although Ruby's sleep is not so great, she is thriving despite all of the unexpected and sudden changes. I have been grateful for my mother and my old friends and new that have come to our aid, and feel truly blessed for those important people in our lives.
I have also been angry and frustrated that we live in a world/culture that values multi-tasking over sustained focus, rushing over moving consciously through time and space, workaholism over balance, and things over people. It affects us all in some way, and we can't always protect ourselves or the ones we love from it. It is part of the reason I teach yoga. To put people back in touch with their bodies, to help people FEEL the connection between mind, body and spirit. To get anyone I can to move more consciously through their own life. To remind us that we are all connected somehow.
I have also missed my yoga practice. And my yoga teaching. And though I am tired, and am struggling to maintain a balance in my family's life, I am so thrilled to be alive, to have the people we have in our lives.
This experience, I believe, is asking me to take stock of my life, the things and people that are important to me, the things that don't just need to get done, but bring us true joy, and make them a bigger part of our lives. I intend to answer that call. I don't know how, or when, but I will answer.
In the meantime, I thank all of you for your patience, well-wishes, and beautiful spirits! I look forward to teaching and practicing with you all soon!
Peace, love and wear your helmets!
April KirkHart
www.workofheartyoga.com
My husband, Casey, was in a rather serious accident recently involving his bike and another car. Both my husband and I have been cyclists since we did the California AIDS Ride 6 back in 1999 (we rode from San Francisco to Los Angeles and raised money for HIV and AIDS services) but my husband has kept up with his training over the years better than I!
Just over a month ago, Casey was on a ride, training for a bike/swim race, and was on his way home coming through Marina Del Rey. It was a light 25 mile ride for Casey, and he was on his way to meet me and our almost 1 year old daughter, Ruby Jo, at the park.
In any case, there he was, in the right lane, fully in accordance with all laws pertaining to vehicles in the state of California, riding along at about 10 mph when a car passed him on his left. The car then proceeded through an intersection and turned right suddenly without signaling or, apparently, without checking over her shoulder or mirrors and cut Casey off in a way that forced him to plow into the back of the car and then fall onto his left side. The impact was so strong that Casey shattered his left elbow and rammed his femur bone into his hip socket causing multiple fractures of the hip (acetabulum, to be exact).
So, I got a voicemail from Casey as he was being loaded into an ambulance telling me that he was alive, but in a pretty serious accident and he wasn't sure where they were taking him.
As I chased Ruby Jo through the park, i saw a light on my cell phone and listened to the message. You can imagine my reaction. No? Well, then let me paint the picture: Me, running at top speed in my flip flops, pushing my very concerned almost-toddler in her stroller and racing back to our house. I packed her diaper bag, had her in the car and headed to the general area of the accident in 2 minutes flat awaiting a report of which hospital I should actually head to.
After 2 serious surgeries involving many metal plates and screws and special surgical tables to help pull my husband apart so they could put him back together again, Casey spent 1.5 weeks in the hospital and came home only to sleep in a hospital bed in our living room for almost a month. He is, for the time being, limited to getting around in a wheel chair and, for very short trips, some special crutches for at least another few weeks.
He's been out of work and on medications, has had home and in-hospital physical and occupational therapy sessions, blood draws, and consultations. It took a month to get rid of the hospital bed, and for him to get back some of his independence. He has had an impressively positive attitude about his recovery and I love him for it.
Over the past month, I've had to ask for help from others to sub my classes for me, or babysit for me, or bring us food, etc. I have had some wonderful support from some very unexpected people, and have been surprised by people's reactions, both good and bad. Mostly, I have been grateful that my husband is alive (it could have been his head after all - and thank god for helmets!), and that although Ruby's sleep is not so great, she is thriving despite all of the unexpected and sudden changes. I have been grateful for my mother and my old friends and new that have come to our aid, and feel truly blessed for those important people in our lives.
I have also been angry and frustrated that we live in a world/culture that values multi-tasking over sustained focus, rushing over moving consciously through time and space, workaholism over balance, and things over people. It affects us all in some way, and we can't always protect ourselves or the ones we love from it. It is part of the reason I teach yoga. To put people back in touch with their bodies, to help people FEEL the connection between mind, body and spirit. To get anyone I can to move more consciously through their own life. To remind us that we are all connected somehow.
I have also missed my yoga practice. And my yoga teaching. And though I am tired, and am struggling to maintain a balance in my family's life, I am so thrilled to be alive, to have the people we have in our lives.
This experience, I believe, is asking me to take stock of my life, the things and people that are important to me, the things that don't just need to get done, but bring us true joy, and make them a bigger part of our lives. I intend to answer that call. I don't know how, or when, but I will answer.
In the meantime, I thank all of you for your patience, well-wishes, and beautiful spirits! I look forward to teaching and practicing with you all soon!
Peace, love and wear your helmets!
April KirkHart
www.workofheartyoga.com
Monday, June 28, 2010
subs, and what's up Saturday class???
Hello all my yogis,
I'm always worried about what to do if I'm going to be gone or on vacation... On the one hand, if I tell my students I'm not going to be there, many don't show up for the subs, and the studio loses money, making it less likely that they will keep me on staff in the long run... on the other, if I don't tell my students and they DO come and are bummed to have a sub, they often won't come back when I return... Conundrum.
But folks, the truth of the matter is: yoga teachers are human (gasp!), and they need vacations too. So, here's my compromise.
I usually don't announce it in class, but I will announce it on my blog. And here's how I feel about it.
I know what it's like to find a teacher you really jive with, and to show up expecting them, only to find this other totally new person you've never met before. It's jolting. Disorienting sometimes. However, I have often found that I learn something new from new teachers. They have a different way of explaining the poses or more of a focus on breathing or alignment. Not to mention, that when I practice at a studio, or teach at a studio, I consider it part of my community. It's not just a teacher that I'm supporting, it's the entire studio community. And I hope that my students get that feeling from my teaching... and I hope that they will think of it as their community too.
I encourage my students to come even when I'm out not only so that I'll have a job waiting for me when I come back, but also because I believe in the people I have subbing for me and think my students might actually learn something, heck, even enjoy their classes!
At the same time, I will never give my students a hard time if they can't or choose not to show up. There are a million reasons why folks may not show up (vacation, illness, something came up, they left the coffee pot on, etc,) and they are none of my business. However, if someone doesn't show up because they didn't enjoy a class of mine, or a class I had a sub teach, I, OF COURSE, want to know about it, so that I can do something to change it. But it's up to you if feel like telling me!
That being said... I'm going on vacation this week. Don't freak out. It's only a week...Here's my list of subs:
JULES HOGAN: Saturday July 3rd, Level One (11-12:30)
Sunday, July 4th, call the studio to find out if any classes are being held
CHERYL MOSS: Monday, July 5th Prenatal. (10-11:30am)
PULEEZE enjoy these women, these classes and something new for a change. And come back to me when I'm back, tell me all about it and what you learned! You won't regret it! I'll miss you tons and look forward to seeing you again soon.
And a shout out to my Saturday class students: WHERE ARE YOU?! I miss you all!
Peace,
April
I'm always worried about what to do if I'm going to be gone or on vacation... On the one hand, if I tell my students I'm not going to be there, many don't show up for the subs, and the studio loses money, making it less likely that they will keep me on staff in the long run... on the other, if I don't tell my students and they DO come and are bummed to have a sub, they often won't come back when I return... Conundrum.
But folks, the truth of the matter is: yoga teachers are human (gasp!), and they need vacations too. So, here's my compromise.
I usually don't announce it in class, but I will announce it on my blog. And here's how I feel about it.
I know what it's like to find a teacher you really jive with, and to show up expecting them, only to find this other totally new person you've never met before. It's jolting. Disorienting sometimes. However, I have often found that I learn something new from new teachers. They have a different way of explaining the poses or more of a focus on breathing or alignment. Not to mention, that when I practice at a studio, or teach at a studio, I consider it part of my community. It's not just a teacher that I'm supporting, it's the entire studio community. And I hope that my students get that feeling from my teaching... and I hope that they will think of it as their community too.
I encourage my students to come even when I'm out not only so that I'll have a job waiting for me when I come back, but also because I believe in the people I have subbing for me and think my students might actually learn something, heck, even enjoy their classes!
At the same time, I will never give my students a hard time if they can't or choose not to show up. There are a million reasons why folks may not show up (vacation, illness, something came up, they left the coffee pot on, etc,) and they are none of my business. However, if someone doesn't show up because they didn't enjoy a class of mine, or a class I had a sub teach, I, OF COURSE, want to know about it, so that I can do something to change it. But it's up to you if feel like telling me!
That being said... I'm going on vacation this week. Don't freak out. It's only a week...Here's my list of subs:
JULES HOGAN: Saturday July 3rd, Level One (11-12:30)
Sunday, July 4th, call the studio to find out if any classes are being held
CHERYL MOSS: Monday, July 5th Prenatal. (10-11:30am)
PULEEZE enjoy these women, these classes and something new for a change. And come back to me when I'm back, tell me all about it and what you learned! You won't regret it! I'll miss you tons and look forward to seeing you again soon.
And a shout out to my Saturday class students: WHERE ARE YOU?! I miss you all!
Peace,
April
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Chasing Svasana...
For Lolita-
I'll never forget the first time I understood Svasana...
In a small studio in Queens, NY, Richmond Hill to be exact, I had my first experience of Dhyana, the 7th limb of yoga, and maybe a touch of the 8th. There are 8 limbs in yoga, according to Patanjali. The translations of the Sanskrit differ, depending on who you talk to, but a crass translation is the following:
1. Yama : Universal morality (this one takes some explaining...)
2. Niyama : Personal observances
3. Asanas : Body postures
4. Pranayama : Breathing exercises, and control of prana
5. Pratyahara : Control of the senses
6. Dharana : Concentration and cultivating inner perceptual awareness
7. Dhyana : Devotion, Meditation on the Divine
8. Samadhi : Union with the Divine
Most people are only aware of #s 3 and 4, which are commonly practiced in US yoga studios. I consider Pranayama and Pratyahara to be inseparable, myself, which is also how I teach Pranayama - as the beginning of your meditative practice. The last 4 limbs are all forms of meditation. That being said, they are hard to define, and it is even harder to describe the experience of each.
But I will never forget the feeling, that still rests deep in my bones, and in my heart.
I went to a late night class. It was winter in New York. I sloshed through grey snow the few blocks from my house to the studio that magically opened up two days after I swore insanity was knocking at my door while I was starting graduate school. I felt a calling to Social Work, but was struggling with working in communities that dealt with extreme poverty, illness and violence and not being swallowed by despair. Working 70 hours a week didn't help either.
I shook off my puffy coat, and my badly fitting jeans, peeled off my thermals and unbunched my yoga pants from my, well, butt crack, to be perfectly honest. I felt disheveled, out of place, tired, heavy, and very very lonely.
I looked around the small studio, candles lit, warm light bouncing gently off the hardwood floor, the small statue of Ganesh in the corner wreathed in flowers. "Yes, Ganesh. Guide me through the sludge in my head, and the F train commute..." I thought.
I rolled out my mat, and laid down. The only light the entire class was by candle. I was happy to be in the dark warm glow of candles, to sweat, to listen to the soft lilt of my teacher's German accent.
At the end of class, Asana done, my breathing slow and steady, we sat in meditation for a moment in sukhasana (soft- cross legged pose). I heard through the chatter in my own head, "April, you are leaning forward. Sit back a little. Relax. Release your anxiety," my teacher whispered as the slightest touch of her forefinger drew my shoulders gently back over my hips.
I was amazed by how much I was leaning forward, as if sitting on the edge of a cliff, nervously peering over the side. I flipped some switch, and let go of any judgment of my spazzy posture, and just observed passively. I was leaning forward, anticipating my whole life. I realized, I did it all the time, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Never being fully present in the moment, but looking ahead to the next. It was exhausting. It is the work I will continue to address for quite some time.
As we stretched out for Svasana, I wondered if I could let go even more deeply. So I relaxed each muscle, stopped thinking, and just followed the sound of my inhale and exhale. After a few minutes, I let go of the sound of my breathe. I felt my mind turn inward - and felt my awareness sink more deeply into my body. I feel both heavy and light at the same time. I let go of directing my focus to my breathe or any one feeling, and suddenly was very aware of every part of myself, the room, the world outside, and it certainly felt like everything beyond it. It was as if time stopped, gravity ceased to exist, and I was floating, yet anchored to the core of the earth. I felt very at peace.
I have no idea how long I was in this state, nor did I care. After some while, I heard my teacher's voice, calling me (us) back and felt myself sitting up slowly. After class, as I packed my things and calmly dressed in my awkward layers of clothing, I thanked my teacher very quietly, not wanting to disturb my feeling of calm awareness. I walked home, kissed my soon-to-be husband, and went about my evening. I slept undisturbed the whole night through for the first time in many years.
I had experienced glimpses of it before, moments of sustained focus and concentration... of being "in the zone." But this, this was a deep and luxurious, lovely place in the space/time continuum I very much wanted to visit again.
The trick, I've found, is to welcome it when it comes, and not to chase it. Like looking for a star during twilight. If you try too hard to look directly at it, it disappears. I find that relaxing my gaze, breathing deeply and enjoying the transition to night allows the full spectrum of beauty to reach me. It's really the only way I can think to describe it. You don't find Svasana or Samadhi, it will find you.
Peace,
April KirkHart
www.workofheartyoga.com
I'll never forget the first time I understood Svasana...
In a small studio in Queens, NY, Richmond Hill to be exact, I had my first experience of Dhyana, the 7th limb of yoga, and maybe a touch of the 8th. There are 8 limbs in yoga, according to Patanjali. The translations of the Sanskrit differ, depending on who you talk to, but a crass translation is the following:
1. Yama : Universal morality (this one takes some explaining...)
2. Niyama : Personal observances
3. Asanas : Body postures
4. Pranayama : Breathing exercises, and control of prana
5. Pratyahara : Control of the senses
6. Dharana : Concentration and cultivating inner perceptual awareness
7. Dhyana : Devotion, Meditation on the Divine
8. Samadhi : Union with the Divine
Most people are only aware of #s 3 and 4, which are commonly practiced in US yoga studios. I consider Pranayama and Pratyahara to be inseparable, myself, which is also how I teach Pranayama - as the beginning of your meditative practice. The last 4 limbs are all forms of meditation. That being said, they are hard to define, and it is even harder to describe the experience of each.
But I will never forget the feeling, that still rests deep in my bones, and in my heart.
I went to a late night class. It was winter in New York. I sloshed through grey snow the few blocks from my house to the studio that magically opened up two days after I swore insanity was knocking at my door while I was starting graduate school. I felt a calling to Social Work, but was struggling with working in communities that dealt with extreme poverty, illness and violence and not being swallowed by despair. Working 70 hours a week didn't help either.
I shook off my puffy coat, and my badly fitting jeans, peeled off my thermals and unbunched my yoga pants from my, well, butt crack, to be perfectly honest. I felt disheveled, out of place, tired, heavy, and very very lonely.
I looked around the small studio, candles lit, warm light bouncing gently off the hardwood floor, the small statue of Ganesh in the corner wreathed in flowers. "Yes, Ganesh. Guide me through the sludge in my head, and the F train commute..." I thought.
I rolled out my mat, and laid down. The only light the entire class was by candle. I was happy to be in the dark warm glow of candles, to sweat, to listen to the soft lilt of my teacher's German accent.
At the end of class, Asana done, my breathing slow and steady, we sat in meditation for a moment in sukhasana (soft- cross legged pose). I heard through the chatter in my own head, "April, you are leaning forward. Sit back a little. Relax. Release your anxiety," my teacher whispered as the slightest touch of her forefinger drew my shoulders gently back over my hips.
I was amazed by how much I was leaning forward, as if sitting on the edge of a cliff, nervously peering over the side. I flipped some switch, and let go of any judgment of my spazzy posture, and just observed passively. I was leaning forward, anticipating my whole life. I realized, I did it all the time, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Never being fully present in the moment, but looking ahead to the next. It was exhausting. It is the work I will continue to address for quite some time.
As we stretched out for Svasana, I wondered if I could let go even more deeply. So I relaxed each muscle, stopped thinking, and just followed the sound of my inhale and exhale. After a few minutes, I let go of the sound of my breathe. I felt my mind turn inward - and felt my awareness sink more deeply into my body. I feel both heavy and light at the same time. I let go of directing my focus to my breathe or any one feeling, and suddenly was very aware of every part of myself, the room, the world outside, and it certainly felt like everything beyond it. It was as if time stopped, gravity ceased to exist, and I was floating, yet anchored to the core of the earth. I felt very at peace.
I have no idea how long I was in this state, nor did I care. After some while, I heard my teacher's voice, calling me (us) back and felt myself sitting up slowly. After class, as I packed my things and calmly dressed in my awkward layers of clothing, I thanked my teacher very quietly, not wanting to disturb my feeling of calm awareness. I walked home, kissed my soon-to-be husband, and went about my evening. I slept undisturbed the whole night through for the first time in many years.
I had experienced glimpses of it before, moments of sustained focus and concentration... of being "in the zone." But this, this was a deep and luxurious, lovely place in the space/time continuum I very much wanted to visit again.
The trick, I've found, is to welcome it when it comes, and not to chase it. Like looking for a star during twilight. If you try too hard to look directly at it, it disappears. I find that relaxing my gaze, breathing deeply and enjoying the transition to night allows the full spectrum of beauty to reach me. It's really the only way I can think to describe it. You don't find Svasana or Samadhi, it will find you.
Peace,
April KirkHart
www.workofheartyoga.com
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Did I mention that I love Yoga?
Hi,
I don't write on my Blog nearly enough. Mostly because I feel like I have to have something very important to say - like a really poignant story, a metaphor for life, or some schedule change that my students absolutely must know about...
But I've decided to try to log on, at least once a week, to put down whatever comes to my yogic mind... so there.
I love yoga. I wish I were able to do more of it, and I do try to sneak it in daily, even if in short 15 minute spurts. Motherhood is hard sometimes, literally on the body. My upper back constantly aches for the first time in my life - mostly from bending over and picking up the baby, and breastfeeding. But also from the lack of exercise I get nowadays. Even as a yoga instructor... I don't get as much as I feel I need. And I'm STILL waiting for my abdominal muscles to grow back together (don't worry ladies, this doesn't happen to most pregnant women... I just got lucky!)
When I have free time, I usually make the phone calls I can't make while my baby needs my attention, or online communications, or cleaning the house, occasionally taking a shower or making food for me or the baby, calling my mother back, grocery shopping, running errands, and sometimes going for a walk, or teaching a class.
My standards on the cleanliness of my house have dropped dramatically. Oh, it still bothers me, but I have less choice in the matter.
But I love yoga. I get to go to a class a few times a week, and I get to teach it, and it keeps me sane, makes me feel like I can breathe, makes me feel alive and interested in the world around me. I'm so lucky that yoga exists. And that I get to be a part of passing it on to others, including my amazing daughter, Ruby Jo!
So, them's my thoughts. Have a great day, and enjoy your yoga!
Peace,
April
I don't write on my Blog nearly enough. Mostly because I feel like I have to have something very important to say - like a really poignant story, a metaphor for life, or some schedule change that my students absolutely must know about...
But I've decided to try to log on, at least once a week, to put down whatever comes to my yogic mind... so there.
I love yoga. I wish I were able to do more of it, and I do try to sneak it in daily, even if in short 15 minute spurts. Motherhood is hard sometimes, literally on the body. My upper back constantly aches for the first time in my life - mostly from bending over and picking up the baby, and breastfeeding. But also from the lack of exercise I get nowadays. Even as a yoga instructor... I don't get as much as I feel I need. And I'm STILL waiting for my abdominal muscles to grow back together (don't worry ladies, this doesn't happen to most pregnant women... I just got lucky!)
When I have free time, I usually make the phone calls I can't make while my baby needs my attention, or online communications, or cleaning the house, occasionally taking a shower or making food for me or the baby, calling my mother back, grocery shopping, running errands, and sometimes going for a walk, or teaching a class.
My standards on the cleanliness of my house have dropped dramatically. Oh, it still bothers me, but I have less choice in the matter.
But I love yoga. I get to go to a class a few times a week, and I get to teach it, and it keeps me sane, makes me feel like I can breathe, makes me feel alive and interested in the world around me. I'm so lucky that yoga exists. And that I get to be a part of passing it on to others, including my amazing daughter, Ruby Jo!
So, them's my thoughts. Have a great day, and enjoy your yoga!
Peace,
April
Thursday, April 15, 2010
April's on vacation!
Dearest of Yogis and Yoginis,
As always, I know that you will still come for your yoga class... but I will be away on a small but much needed vacation with my family. I have THE most awesome subs teaching for me, so PULEEZE get your yoga on with these amazing ladies - they really do rock!
Sat, April 17th Level One : Jules Hogan
Sun, April 18th Beginner: Jewel Greenberg
Mon, April 19th Prenatal: Jewel Greenberg
Sat, April 24th Level One: Jules Hogan
Sun, April 25th Beginner: Kate Duyn
And a HUMUNGOUS thank you to them for subbing for me. I love my students and I miss them dearly when I am gone, and I ONLY like to put them in very capable and responsible hands...
Have a fabulous time!
Peace,
April KirkHart
www.workofheartyoga.com
As always, I know that you will still come for your yoga class... but I will be away on a small but much needed vacation with my family. I have THE most awesome subs teaching for me, so PULEEZE get your yoga on with these amazing ladies - they really do rock!
Sat, April 17th Level One : Jules Hogan
Sun, April 18th Beginner: Jewel Greenberg
Mon, April 19th Prenatal: Jewel Greenberg
Sat, April 24th Level One: Jules Hogan
Sun, April 25th Beginner: Kate Duyn
And a HUMUNGOUS thank you to them for subbing for me. I love my students and I miss them dearly when I am gone, and I ONLY like to put them in very capable and responsible hands...
Have a fabulous time!
Peace,
April KirkHart
www.workofheartyoga.com
Friday, April 2, 2010
Schedule changes: Easter & Mommy and Me
Dearest All,
Please note that I have changed my schedule: I am no longer teaching the Friday 10am Mommy and Me class at GODA. Fear not new mothers, Kate Duyn is taking the class over, and I have had nothing but amazing feedback from my students about her. I know the class is in good hands! So if you were worried you'd be banished to your homes with only nap schedules, teething issues, and diapers to occupy yourself, wipe the thought from your minds and get thee to yoga with your little ones!
On another note, this coming SUNDAY is Easter, and GODA is only having one class for the day. Rig is teaching at 9am. So if you are craving some movement, breathe and community, whether you celebrate Easter or not, throw off those covers, hide the chocolate eggs, and go have some fun with Rig and his clan at GODA! * I am still teaching my Saturday 11am Level One class...
Peace and Happy Spring everyone!
-April
Please note that I have changed my schedule: I am no longer teaching the Friday 10am Mommy and Me class at GODA. Fear not new mothers, Kate Duyn is taking the class over, and I have had nothing but amazing feedback from my students about her. I know the class is in good hands! So if you were worried you'd be banished to your homes with only nap schedules, teething issues, and diapers to occupy yourself, wipe the thought from your minds and get thee to yoga with your little ones!
On another note, this coming SUNDAY is Easter, and GODA is only having one class for the day. Rig is teaching at 9am. So if you are craving some movement, breathe and community, whether you celebrate Easter or not, throw off those covers, hide the chocolate eggs, and go have some fun with Rig and his clan at GODA! * I am still teaching my Saturday 11am Level One class...
Peace and Happy Spring everyone!
-April
Monday, March 22, 2010
Sub for Prenatal today!
Dear Prenatal Yogis,
My apologies for the last minute update, but my 10am Prenatal Yoga class today will be taught by special guest teacher Jules Hogan!
I do not have my usual babysitter/auntie around to watch Ruby Jo (Cheryl has a cold!) and thought it would be better to have Jules sub for me, than to bring Ruby in to teach with me - she gets a little cranky while I'm trying to start Svasana for you all, so I thought Jules might be more relaxing for you!
Please forgive the last minute change, but these things do happen when your little ones arrive. I will see you next week!
And a BIG thank you to Jules for stepping in for me!
Peace,
April KirkHart
www.workofheartyoga.com
My apologies for the last minute update, but my 10am Prenatal Yoga class today will be taught by special guest teacher Jules Hogan!
I do not have my usual babysitter/auntie around to watch Ruby Jo (Cheryl has a cold!) and thought it would be better to have Jules sub for me, than to bring Ruby in to teach with me - she gets a little cranky while I'm trying to start Svasana for you all, so I thought Jules might be more relaxing for you!
Please forgive the last minute change, but these things do happen when your little ones arrive. I will see you next week!
And a BIG thank you to Jules for stepping in for me!
Peace,
April KirkHart
www.workofheartyoga.com
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Teaching PRIVATE LESSONS again!!!!
Dear WHY Yogis,
That's right, you heard it here first! I am teaching private lessons again! As you will notice on my home page at www.workofheartyoga.com, I have new rates, as it is a little trickier for me to sneak away from my baby girl, and I must pay someone to watch her. However, please notice that I DO have packages that allow you to get a great discount!
I am more than happy to come to your home if it is a reasonable distance from me, or we can potentially work something out with GODA if we can schedule it at a time when it won't interfere with regular class schedules. We can work on deepening your regular practice, breathing, particular posses you would like to improve, areas of the body you would like to work on, increasing strength or stamina, weight loss, and prenatal yoga! We will tailor your sessions to your needs.
Please feel free to contact me via email at workofheartyoga@gmail.com to discuss setting up private lessons or pass this on to anyone you think might be interested. Remember, private yoga packages make great presents for others too!
Peace,
April KirkHart
workofheartyoga@gmail.com
That's right, you heard it here first! I am teaching private lessons again! As you will notice on my home page at www.workofheartyoga.com, I have new rates, as it is a little trickier for me to sneak away from my baby girl, and I must pay someone to watch her. However, please notice that I DO have packages that allow you to get a great discount!
I am more than happy to come to your home if it is a reasonable distance from me, or we can potentially work something out with GODA if we can schedule it at a time when it won't interfere with regular class schedules. We can work on deepening your regular practice, breathing, particular posses you would like to improve, areas of the body you would like to work on, increasing strength or stamina, weight loss, and prenatal yoga! We will tailor your sessions to your needs.
Please feel free to contact me via email at workofheartyoga@gmail.com to discuss setting up private lessons or pass this on to anyone you think might be interested. Remember, private yoga packages make great presents for others too!
Peace,
April KirkHart
workofheartyoga@gmail.com
Friday, February 26, 2010
Schedule updates!
My dearest Yogis,
I will have two wonderful subs teaching for me this weekend, Sat and Sun Feb 27 and 28th, as well as next weekend, March 5th and 6th. My subs are as follows:
Sat Feb 27th - Jewel Greenberg - Level One 11-12:30
Sun Feb 28th - Kate Duyn - Beginner 11-12:30
Kate will be subbing both classes on March 5th and 6th. I have received FABULOUS feedback from my students about both subs, so if you haven't had them yet, please come to class and try a new teaching style out. You will inevitably learn something new!
Also, Prenatal this Monday, March 1st, will be canceled as I have no one to watch my precious little one! Class will resume the following week!
Much love and peace to all my students!
-April KH
I will have two wonderful subs teaching for me this weekend, Sat and Sun Feb 27 and 28th, as well as next weekend, March 5th and 6th. My subs are as follows:
Sat Feb 27th - Jewel Greenberg - Level One 11-12:30
Sun Feb 28th - Kate Duyn - Beginner 11-12:30
Kate will be subbing both classes on March 5th and 6th. I have received FABULOUS feedback from my students about both subs, so if you haven't had them yet, please come to class and try a new teaching style out. You will inevitably learn something new!
Also, Prenatal this Monday, March 1st, will be canceled as I have no one to watch my precious little one! Class will resume the following week!
Much love and peace to all my students!
-April KH
Thursday, January 28, 2010
My Small World...
My world has shrunk considerably, and I'm pretty sure I'm becoming nearsighted. I find myself always staring down at this tiny but growing bundle in my arms. When I look up finally, I am often disoriented and feel slightly off-center. It is a beautiful thing, though, this new love. It is so vast, and ever-changing becoming deeper each day.
The first few months I felt slightly on edge, running on pure adrenaline - partially from only getting about 2 hours of sleep at a time and no more than maybe 4 every night, and partially from the knowledge that my husband and I were responsible for not only keeping this little tiny helpless human being alive, but also for her healthy growth and development. It's wonderful and terrifying at the same time.
But I think of Ruby Jo when I am not with her, I can stare at her and pictures of her for hours, days, I'm sure. The sound of her giggle or just her breathing in and out is like heaven to me, and she makes me feel full of life, and scared like hell of it all at the same time.
It is a good thing. To have my world be small right now. There is so much pain and suffering in the world. Having a child makes me realize even more profoundly how unnecessary it all is, and that we have the power to end that suffering. I am torn between the inspiration Ruby gives me to do just that, and my fear that she will have to grow up in this world where we haven't figured it out yet.
I do not pretend to be wise, only very deeply in love...
Peace,
April
The first few months I felt slightly on edge, running on pure adrenaline - partially from only getting about 2 hours of sleep at a time and no more than maybe 4 every night, and partially from the knowledge that my husband and I were responsible for not only keeping this little tiny helpless human being alive, but also for her healthy growth and development. It's wonderful and terrifying at the same time.
But I think of Ruby Jo when I am not with her, I can stare at her and pictures of her for hours, days, I'm sure. The sound of her giggle or just her breathing in and out is like heaven to me, and she makes me feel full of life, and scared like hell of it all at the same time.
It is a good thing. To have my world be small right now. There is so much pain and suffering in the world. Having a child makes me realize even more profoundly how unnecessary it all is, and that we have the power to end that suffering. I am torn between the inspiration Ruby gives me to do just that, and my fear that she will have to grow up in this world where we haven't figured it out yet.
I do not pretend to be wise, only very deeply in love...
Peace,
April
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
April is back at GODA Yoga!
Dear All,
I realize it's been a while since I've posted anything...I've been busy with my new babygirl, Ruby Josephine KirkHart, born August 1st, weighing 6lbs. 15oz. and measuring 20 inches long. She is strawberry blonde (what little hair she has!) and is absolutely amazing to me and her Daddy, Casey. Ruby Jo was born at home with the help of our midwife Sarah Sheeley from The Sanctuary. Her birth was everything we hoped it would be, and I may post more on that in a future blog. She has pretty much captivated all my attention for the past 3 months. And I absolutely love being her mom!
Thank you to all of my wonderful students who have sent well-wishes, cards, presents, and happy and healthy vibes for us. And thank you to all of the teachers who have stepped in to teach my classes and take care of my students while I was on maternity leave. I am eternally grateful!
I have many thoughts and funny stories about new motherhood/parenthood, and may post those in time. I find that I could use an extra hand, or four, and rarely get time to use both hands to type, so it may take some time.
In the meantime, I wanted to let you all know that I am going to start teaching a new schedule at GODA Yoga starting on November 2nd (see schedule below). If you were doing or are interested in private lessons, I'll have to work that out with each of you individually.
My new schedule:
Fridays, 10-11:30am Mommy and Me (bring your baby's favorite toy or two)
Saturdays, 11-12:30 Level One
Sundays, 11-12:30 Beginner
Mondays, 10-11:30am Prenatal Yoga (all trimesters welcome, and those preparing for pregnancy as well!)
I hope you are all well and look forward to seeing you soon!
Peace,
April KirkHart
workofheartyoga@gmail.com
www.workofheartyoga.com
I realize it's been a while since I've posted anything...I've been busy with my new babygirl, Ruby Josephine KirkHart, born August 1st, weighing 6lbs. 15oz. and measuring 20 inches long. She is strawberry blonde (what little hair she has!) and is absolutely amazing to me and her Daddy, Casey. Ruby Jo was born at home with the help of our midwife Sarah Sheeley from The Sanctuary. Her birth was everything we hoped it would be, and I may post more on that in a future blog. She has pretty much captivated all my attention for the past 3 months. And I absolutely love being her mom!
Thank you to all of my wonderful students who have sent well-wishes, cards, presents, and happy and healthy vibes for us. And thank you to all of the teachers who have stepped in to teach my classes and take care of my students while I was on maternity leave. I am eternally grateful!
I have many thoughts and funny stories about new motherhood/parenthood, and may post those in time. I find that I could use an extra hand, or four, and rarely get time to use both hands to type, so it may take some time.
In the meantime, I wanted to let you all know that I am going to start teaching a new schedule at GODA Yoga starting on November 2nd (see schedule below). If you were doing or are interested in private lessons, I'll have to work that out with each of you individually.
My new schedule:
Fridays, 10-11:30am Mommy and Me (bring your baby's favorite toy or two)
Saturdays, 11-12:30 Level One
Sundays, 11-12:30 Beginner
Mondays, 10-11:30am Prenatal Yoga (all trimesters welcome, and those preparing for pregnancy as well!)
I hope you are all well and look forward to seeing you soon!
Peace,
April KirkHart
workofheartyoga@gmail.com
www.workofheartyoga.com
Friday, July 10, 2009
No baby yet, but acupuncture rocks...
Hello my yogis and yoginis, are you ready for a Looooong Blog?
Good.
So, no baby yet. I keep thinking she'll come early, but my midwives tell me not to get my hopes up! And yes, I said midwives.
"Whaaaaaatt??!!" you may ask. Or not.
Many people assume that because I am a yoga instructor I have a completely "alternative lifestyle" (whatever that means) or am against Western Medicine... Well, you learn something new every day, right? So, first I'll tell you how my husband and I decided to do a home birth, and then I will tell you why this needle-phobic gal now loves acupuncture...
PART I.
Some of you know that my husband is actually a family medicine doctor, (he just finished residency, YAY!) I also grew up in a family with a doctor and nurse who also had good ethical centers and open minds. So, I've always been comfortable with western medicine, but have also been exposed to complementary and alternative medicine. I have approached both with healthy skepticism and curiosity. I ask questions, I read stuff. So sue me.
I've always seen western medicine doctors, and did so through the beginning of my pregnancy and planned to have a hospital birth like most people. However, for the first time, something seemed off. I kept feeling like I was being "treated" for an illness. The short 5-10 minute visits with my doctors felt rushed, I hardly ever felt comfortable asking questions if I even had time to remember that I had questions to begin with. Not to mention, the doctors and staff were a little more testy than I was used to. Our health care system sets it up to be like this; docs have to see a huge volume of patients, and OBGYNs get sued more often than other doctors, and have to spend a ton of money for liability insurance. On top of that, their patient-base, namely pregnant women, are more hormonal and emotional than say, the average patient. And they have a right to be, because after all, they ARE having a baby, not buying a pet fish. It's an emotional thing. That creates the potential for a really tense situation.
Granted, some OBGYNs are more mellow than others (as are some pregnant women.) And I know some really fabulous OBGYNs that are friends of mine as well, but weren't doctors I could see for my own pregnancy (insurance being the main issue). They are highly trained surgeons, really. They are trained for every possible worst-case scenario! And thank goodness they are because that's what makes them so good at dealing with higher risk pregnancies. We are lucky to live in a country with such skilled physicians and to have the options that we do with prenatal, delivery and postpartum care.
A quick disclaimer: I would NEVER judge ANY woman for the kind of care and/or delivery she chooses for herself. Some are more comfortable with a doctor in a hospital setting, some aren't. It is a highly personal and private decision, with many factors that contribute to the decision-making process. And I believe that all births are important, special and life-transforming experiences, and that women should just be open and supportive of each other regardless of how they experience all of this and to be supportive of the women who can't or choose not to go through pregnancy or child birth, period. In addition, I'm not trying to give OBGYNs a bad rap. There are some AMAZING docs out there, but they are hard to find when all you have to go on is a list on your insurance website. And unless you can pay more out of pocket, some of them are hard to get.
In any case, I tried a number of docs, and none were working out for me personally, especially with the constraints from my health insurance. Let me pause here and say our health care insurance industry sucks. It needs MAJOR reform. MAJOR. It sucks for patients and it sucks for doctors. However, had I found a better match for my personality and health philosophies, I probably would have stuck with one. But I didn't so here's what happened.
My husband and I did some research (it was actually his idea) and I interviewed a number of midwives and birth centers, etc. We found a group near us of Licensed Professional Midwives and Nurse Midwives that we really liked and trusted. The group of midwives is called Sacred Entrance and the full range of services they offer is called The Sanctuary.
I have LOVED my prenatal care there. So far, we plan on doing a home-birth, although that plan is a flexible one - if there are any complications, they have a back-up or collaborating doctor at Cedars Sinai and I would be transferred to the hospital. How would they know if there's a complication? Well, they aren't just a bunch of long-haired hippie women that come in with potions and pixie dust... the midwives, who are highly trained, have delivered hundreds of babies and follow a normal prenatal care schedule. They basically check all the stuff a doctor does, AND give nutrition an extra emphasis. To the birth, they bring a monitor for the baby's heart beat, they have oxygen, IV's if you need one, anti-hemorrhage medications, and they are all certified in neonatal resuscitation, suturing, etc. For low-risk pregnancies, it's really very safe - and they remind you that home birth really is for low-risk pregnancies. They are VERY clear that OBGYNs handle higher-risk pregnancies and are trained to do so, and they do not hesitate to refer you out if there's any indication you might have a complication. If you'd like more info, check out the website for our midwife group: http://www.sacredentrance.com/ go to: Birth Center - Enter site - Birth Center and then look at the resources under Additional Information (especially the FAQs document.)
In any case, we dig them. They are very skilled, professional, yet it all feels homey, and they take at LEAST a good hour for each appointment - they care about your diet and exercise which are HUGELY important for a healthy low-risk pregnancy. They refer any high-risk pregnancies to their collaborating Doctor at Cedars Sinai, as I mentioned before. Even if someone wants a hospital birth or needs to have one because they are higher risk or have complications, The Sanctuary/Sacred Entrance still offers a range of other services for prenatal care, massage, acupuncture, nutritional counseling, mommy groups, birthing classes, lactation specialists etc.
They are very supportive of women having options and making the right choices for them. In short... they are just the coolest. I am excited about my birth and fast approaching parental-hood, and the folks at The Sanctuary have helped me prepare to be open to whatever I need to happen during my labor.
So, this brings me to my next topic. Acupuncture.
PART II.
I have always had a fairly intense fear of needles. As a kid who had strep-throat all the time, I had to have a lot of blood tests and was poked a lot with needles. It was traumatizing particularly because I have small veins which meant they generally had to stick me multiple times to get what they needed.
In any case, I've never really researched Eastern Medicine or Acupuncture and so I don't really understand how it works. However, at The Sanctuary, they have an acupuncturist and I found out I could get a few appointments as part of my birth package there and I thought, "hey, I'll try it and see what happens." I was having a lot of low-back and hip pain that even my long practice of yoga wasn't completely addressing. (Yes, even practiced Yoga instructors are not immune to some of the hardships of pregnancy. It's very humbling.) In any case, I was told that acupuncture might help me have less discomfort AND sleep better.
It sounded like magic. And it kind of is.
I met Emily Bartlett, LAc. I think that stands for Licensed Acupuncturist. She did a comprehensive interview with me about my aches and pains, my needle phobia, and then showed me the needles and how they worked so I wouldn't be so scared. Also, we had a funny conversation about organic vs. regular mattresses in which she alluded to the fact that our professions can be bombarded with some non-practical "hippie dippie" ideas that can alienate people with lower incomes. I thought she was hilarious for using that term "hippie dippie," and strongly appreciated her down-to-earthiness.
Anywho, she gave me this mini 20 minute massage first, that I swear, was like butter. It was so relaxing and amazing. Then she went ahead and put in some needles in all sorts of weird spots, like one in my forehead, and a few in my hands, near my knees, and a number at different points in my back. I could barely feel them, it didn't hurt, and then she told me to relax and breathe deeply for a while. She left me with a bell in case I started to freak out or needed to pee or anything. I completely fell asleep after about 10 minutes of deep breathing. She came back about 20-30 minutes later and took all the needles out (which again, I barely felt) and told me to drink lots of water and take it easy for the day.
I slept better than I had in months that night, I had no back or hip pain for a few days, and felt very mellow that night and the next day.
I have gone back every week for the last month or two, and have had a great experience every time. I still don't understand how it all works; something about each point connecting to certain physical, biological functions as well as mental and emotional ones and helping the energy flow between them better. All I know is that I feel much better after I leave her office.
Emily also offers Holistic pediatric care for kids and has a website: http://holistickid.com
She's a really balanced practitioner and a really down to earth person. If you were ever curious about or wanted to try acupuncture, I'd highly recommend her. You should definitely go to her website and see what she offers.
And don't worry, you'll all see pics once the baby comes.
I miss you all very much and I hope you are doing well, and are continuing your yoga practice! Take care and see you all soon!
Peace,
April
Good.
So, no baby yet. I keep thinking she'll come early, but my midwives tell me not to get my hopes up! And yes, I said midwives.
"Whaaaaaatt??!!" you may ask. Or not.
Many people assume that because I am a yoga instructor I have a completely "alternative lifestyle" (whatever that means) or am against Western Medicine... Well, you learn something new every day, right? So, first I'll tell you how my husband and I decided to do a home birth, and then I will tell you why this needle-phobic gal now loves acupuncture...
PART I.
Some of you know that my husband is actually a family medicine doctor, (he just finished residency, YAY!) I also grew up in a family with a doctor and nurse who also had good ethical centers and open minds. So, I've always been comfortable with western medicine, but have also been exposed to complementary and alternative medicine. I have approached both with healthy skepticism and curiosity. I ask questions, I read stuff. So sue me.
I've always seen western medicine doctors, and did so through the beginning of my pregnancy and planned to have a hospital birth like most people. However, for the first time, something seemed off. I kept feeling like I was being "treated" for an illness. The short 5-10 minute visits with my doctors felt rushed, I hardly ever felt comfortable asking questions if I even had time to remember that I had questions to begin with. Not to mention, the doctors and staff were a little more testy than I was used to. Our health care system sets it up to be like this; docs have to see a huge volume of patients, and OBGYNs get sued more often than other doctors, and have to spend a ton of money for liability insurance. On top of that, their patient-base, namely pregnant women, are more hormonal and emotional than say, the average patient. And they have a right to be, because after all, they ARE having a baby, not buying a pet fish. It's an emotional thing. That creates the potential for a really tense situation.
Granted, some OBGYNs are more mellow than others (as are some pregnant women.) And I know some really fabulous OBGYNs that are friends of mine as well, but weren't doctors I could see for my own pregnancy (insurance being the main issue). They are highly trained surgeons, really. They are trained for every possible worst-case scenario! And thank goodness they are because that's what makes them so good at dealing with higher risk pregnancies. We are lucky to live in a country with such skilled physicians and to have the options that we do with prenatal, delivery and postpartum care.
A quick disclaimer: I would NEVER judge ANY woman for the kind of care and/or delivery she chooses for herself. Some are more comfortable with a doctor in a hospital setting, some aren't. It is a highly personal and private decision, with many factors that contribute to the decision-making process. And I believe that all births are important, special and life-transforming experiences, and that women should just be open and supportive of each other regardless of how they experience all of this and to be supportive of the women who can't or choose not to go through pregnancy or child birth, period. In addition, I'm not trying to give OBGYNs a bad rap. There are some AMAZING docs out there, but they are hard to find when all you have to go on is a list on your insurance website. And unless you can pay more out of pocket, some of them are hard to get.
In any case, I tried a number of docs, and none were working out for me personally, especially with the constraints from my health insurance. Let me pause here and say our health care insurance industry sucks. It needs MAJOR reform. MAJOR. It sucks for patients and it sucks for doctors. However, had I found a better match for my personality and health philosophies, I probably would have stuck with one. But I didn't so here's what happened.
My husband and I did some research (it was actually his idea) and I interviewed a number of midwives and birth centers, etc. We found a group near us of Licensed Professional Midwives and Nurse Midwives that we really liked and trusted. The group of midwives is called Sacred Entrance and the full range of services they offer is called The Sanctuary.
I have LOVED my prenatal care there. So far, we plan on doing a home-birth, although that plan is a flexible one - if there are any complications, they have a back-up or collaborating doctor at Cedars Sinai and I would be transferred to the hospital. How would they know if there's a complication? Well, they aren't just a bunch of long-haired hippie women that come in with potions and pixie dust... the midwives, who are highly trained, have delivered hundreds of babies and follow a normal prenatal care schedule. They basically check all the stuff a doctor does, AND give nutrition an extra emphasis. To the birth, they bring a monitor for the baby's heart beat, they have oxygen, IV's if you need one, anti-hemorrhage medications, and they are all certified in neonatal resuscitation, suturing, etc. For low-risk pregnancies, it's really very safe - and they remind you that home birth really is for low-risk pregnancies. They are VERY clear that OBGYNs handle higher-risk pregnancies and are trained to do so, and they do not hesitate to refer you out if there's any indication you might have a complication. If you'd like more info, check out the website for our midwife group: http://www.sacredentrance.com/ go to: Birth Center - Enter site - Birth Center and then look at the resources under Additional Information (especially the FAQs document.)
In any case, we dig them. They are very skilled, professional, yet it all feels homey, and they take at LEAST a good hour for each appointment - they care about your diet and exercise which are HUGELY important for a healthy low-risk pregnancy. They refer any high-risk pregnancies to their collaborating Doctor at Cedars Sinai, as I mentioned before. Even if someone wants a hospital birth or needs to have one because they are higher risk or have complications, The Sanctuary/Sacred Entrance still offers a range of other services for prenatal care, massage, acupuncture, nutritional counseling, mommy groups, birthing classes, lactation specialists etc.
They are very supportive of women having options and making the right choices for them. In short... they are just the coolest. I am excited about my birth and fast approaching parental-hood, and the folks at The Sanctuary have helped me prepare to be open to whatever I need to happen during my labor.
So, this brings me to my next topic. Acupuncture.
PART II.
I have always had a fairly intense fear of needles. As a kid who had strep-throat all the time, I had to have a lot of blood tests and was poked a lot with needles. It was traumatizing particularly because I have small veins which meant they generally had to stick me multiple times to get what they needed.
In any case, I've never really researched Eastern Medicine or Acupuncture and so I don't really understand how it works. However, at The Sanctuary, they have an acupuncturist and I found out I could get a few appointments as part of my birth package there and I thought, "hey, I'll try it and see what happens." I was having a lot of low-back and hip pain that even my long practice of yoga wasn't completely addressing. (Yes, even practiced Yoga instructors are not immune to some of the hardships of pregnancy. It's very humbling.) In any case, I was told that acupuncture might help me have less discomfort AND sleep better.
It sounded like magic. And it kind of is.
I met Emily Bartlett, LAc. I think that stands for Licensed Acupuncturist. She did a comprehensive interview with me about my aches and pains, my needle phobia, and then showed me the needles and how they worked so I wouldn't be so scared. Also, we had a funny conversation about organic vs. regular mattresses in which she alluded to the fact that our professions can be bombarded with some non-practical "hippie dippie" ideas that can alienate people with lower incomes. I thought she was hilarious for using that term "hippie dippie," and strongly appreciated her down-to-earthiness.
Anywho, she gave me this mini 20 minute massage first, that I swear, was like butter. It was so relaxing and amazing. Then she went ahead and put in some needles in all sorts of weird spots, like one in my forehead, and a few in my hands, near my knees, and a number at different points in my back. I could barely feel them, it didn't hurt, and then she told me to relax and breathe deeply for a while. She left me with a bell in case I started to freak out or needed to pee or anything. I completely fell asleep after about 10 minutes of deep breathing. She came back about 20-30 minutes later and took all the needles out (which again, I barely felt) and told me to drink lots of water and take it easy for the day.
I slept better than I had in months that night, I had no back or hip pain for a few days, and felt very mellow that night and the next day.
I have gone back every week for the last month or two, and have had a great experience every time. I still don't understand how it all works; something about each point connecting to certain physical, biological functions as well as mental and emotional ones and helping the energy flow between them better. All I know is that I feel much better after I leave her office.
Emily also offers Holistic pediatric care for kids and has a website: http://holistickid.com
She's a really balanced practitioner and a really down to earth person. If you were ever curious about or wanted to try acupuncture, I'd highly recommend her. You should definitely go to her website and see what she offers.
And don't worry, you'll all see pics once the baby comes.
I miss you all very much and I hope you are doing well, and are continuing your yoga practice! Take care and see you all soon!
Peace,
April
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