So,
I've been asked a number of times about the chant that I sing at the end of class sometimes. And some of my YMCA "regulars" even got a print out one special class of that little prayer. But I thought I would make the transliteration/translation available on my blog since some people seem to really like it.
Let me start by saying that when I first got into yoga, I didn't want to get into the whole "chanting" thing because it felt weird, a little goofy, and close to religious, which is something I have struggled with. However, when I started to read about the translations of some of these chants, I found them to be spiritually purposeful for me, and fairly universal in nature - meaning the opposite of exclusionary. That's why I sing some of them before or after my class, because it reminds me of my own intention, and to be honest, I like the way they sound and feel when I sing them. They fill me up like a glass of water does a thirsty person in the desert. Or at least that's the feeling I get.
However, I understand people's curiosity or hesitation about them. More to the point, I have no interest in being signed up for a particular religious belief or pushing one on anyone else. I'm the first to want to know what prayers are being made in my presence and to make sure if I sing along, or say them, that I'm not signing myself or anyone else up for a contract of which they are not a willing participant. Therefore, without further ado...
Closing class prayer:
Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinaha
Sarve Santu Niraamayaah
Sarve Bhadraani Pashyantu
Maa Kaschid Dukha Bhaag Bhavet
Om, Shanti, Shanti, Shanti
Namaste
Translation:
May happiness be unto all,
Perfect health be unto all,
May all see good in everyone (or all things auspicious)
May all be free from suffering.
Om, Peace, Peace, Peace.
I bow to you (or I bow to the god in you.)
**I took this translation from a little booklet of Kirtan from Swami Satchidananda's Yogaville, copyright 1987. However, if you enter "closing slokas" in a google search, you'll find different variations of the transliteration and the actual English translation - but they all come pretty close to this one.
*A little known fact is that the salutation, "Namaste" is an acknowledgment or sign of deep respect.
So with that...
Namaste!
April KirkHart
www.workofheartyoga.com
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
I'm back! And Thanks to Rennie for subbing!
Dearest Yoga Blog Readers,
I am back from my pre-birthday trip and am going to try my hand at including a picture or two in this blog. We'll see how that works out...
But before I do, I just wanted to send out a heartfelt thank you to Rennie for subbing for me at the Y and at YNS. It feels good to know that my students are in capable hands if I am out sick or on vacation. Some of you will be happy to know that Rennie will be teaching at YNS regularly on Saturday evenings, so check the schedule online!
As for a quick picture from my trip to Northern CA...
This is my pre-birthday flan at the Mexican restaurant I went to with friends and Casey in San Rafael. And yes, that is a margarita.
I am glad to be back and can't wait to see you all on the mat!
-april
I am back from my pre-birthday trip and am going to try my hand at including a picture or two in this blog. We'll see how that works out...
But before I do, I just wanted to send out a heartfelt thank you to Rennie for subbing for me at the Y and at YNS. It feels good to know that my students are in capable hands if I am out sick or on vacation. Some of you will be happy to know that Rennie will be teaching at YNS regularly on Saturday evenings, so check the schedule online!
As for a quick picture from my trip to Northern CA...
This is my pre-birthday flan at the Mexican restaurant I went to with friends and Casey in San Rafael. And yes, that is a margarita. I am glad to be back and can't wait to see you all on the mat!
-april
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Family time for April's birthday!
Just a quick note to let you all know that I will be out of town, just for the week for a little vacation, but I am leaving you in good hands!
My friend and colleague, Rennie, will be subbing for me this week, and she is a wonderful kindred spirit, so please bring your fabulous energy to class and share it with her. I promise to do a little meditation for each of my classes while I'm gone.
However, some of my classes are not happening because they fall on Easter Sunday. So the schedule is as follows:
Weds - March 19th - YMC - 6-7:25pm Rennie is subbing
Friday - March 21st Your Neighborhood Studio 9-10:30am - Rennie is subbing
***EASTER SUNDAY, MARCH 23rd
Your Neighborhood Studio is closed, therefore, no Yoga Flow 9-10:30am
GODA Yoga - Rig's class in the AM is still on, and Cheryl will teach her beginner class from 11:00-12:30 am, but my class will not be happening. So if you normally come to my class, come to the 11:00 class and celebrate Easter with Cheryl!
Have a wonderful happy holiday(s) and I will see you after the 23rd!
Peace,
April KirkHart
My friend and colleague, Rennie, will be subbing for me this week, and she is a wonderful kindred spirit, so please bring your fabulous energy to class and share it with her. I promise to do a little meditation for each of my classes while I'm gone.
However, some of my classes are not happening because they fall on Easter Sunday. So the schedule is as follows:
Weds - March 19th - YMC - 6-7:25pm Rennie is subbing
Friday - March 21st Your Neighborhood Studio 9-10:30am - Rennie is subbing
***EASTER SUNDAY, MARCH 23rd
Your Neighborhood Studio is closed, therefore, no Yoga Flow 9-10:30am
GODA Yoga - Rig's class in the AM is still on, and Cheryl will teach her beginner class from 11:00-12:30 am, but my class will not be happening. So if you normally come to my class, come to the 11:00 class and celebrate Easter with Cheryl!
Have a wonderful happy holiday(s) and I will see you after the 23rd!
Peace,
April KirkHart
Thursday, March 13, 2008
How often should I do yoga?
I’ve been asked this question more times in the last week and a half than I can count. My quick answer is: every day! “WHAAAAT,” you ask, “but, how?!” My more detailed answer…
Your yoga practice is very personal. Each person is working with his/her own mind, body, finances and schedules. People practice for different reasons too: some practice to lose weight, some to calm their mind, while others want to build greater strength or flexibility. The wonderful thing about yoga is that you can do it anywhere, with just yourself!
The tricky part is getting yourself to do it, to do it safely, and in a way that allows you to feel some sense of progress.
I think it’s important to attend classes when you can, so an instructor can do adjustments with you, to build your awareness of how you move, how to practice safely, and how to use your breathe in a pose. These are things you can work on at home too.
However, its’ hard for people to make time each day or to feel motivated practicing on their own, which is why many choose to come to class. On the flip-side, it can feel frustrating to come to a class once a week, and feel sore after each class, or like you aren’t progressing in a pose. So, we’re back to the dilemma that not everyone can come to class more than once or twice a week, right?! ARRRRGGGGGH!!!
Fear not, I have some ideas:
1. Come to class when you can - Don’t beat yourself up when you can’t:
* Beating yourself up will make you associate attending class with a chore. Not good. But give yourself kudos when you can come to class!
* Think about creative ways to make it happen – work it out with your employer to come into work earlier, so you can leave a little earlier (and catch a class you love – most likely mine.) One of my students gave up the latte she bought every work day at almost $20/week so she could spend it on yoga classes. Some studios also have work-study opportunities… just some ideas.
* Rushing to a class does not help you enjoy the class - if you do, take a moment outside the studio door to take 3 deep breathes before entering.
2. Private lessons – Know thyself:
* You can schedule them when it’s convenient for you and do them in your own home. Invite a few friends or include family, and you can lower the cost of a one-on-one private lesson.
* You get instruction that is tailored to suit your physical/meditative needs, and goals if you choose to set some.
* For beginners, who are often shy about taking a class, you get to learn the basics, you may feel freer to ask questions, AND the instructor can really focus on you and any difficulty you have with a pose.
3. Some is better than none – Home/work practice:
* Don’t feel like you have to do the full hour/hour and a half! Ten minutes after you wake up can make a world of difference. Do 3 sun salutations, or pick 5 of your favorite poses and do them. You won’t regret it.
* At work in the middle of your day, stand up, place your hands on the desktop, step your feet back and do a variation of down-dog. Close your door and do Warrior II if you need some courage, or tree pose if you feel off-balance. Breathe!
* Keep a yoga mat in your car trunk. Keep a yoga mat or blanket rolled out at home. Some people create a little space for doing yoga in the house – for others, they go outside to the beach, a patch of grass, their patio etc.
Of COURSE I’d love it if you attended 3 (of my) classes per week – I’m trying to make a living doing this! But that’s just not practical for everyone. My overall advice about doing it every day, at home, at work…it’s possible! Doing a little bit of yoga each day will get it “in” your body. Your body will start to crave it, and you’ll find that you are turning 10 minutes into 20, 5 poses into 10, and you’ll notice the difference in your poses when you do come to class, but also in your body and your mind...that’s for sure.
So, feel free to post comments on ways YOU have been able to incorporate more yoga into your life. It just might give someone else a great idea!
Peace out,
April
Your yoga practice is very personal. Each person is working with his/her own mind, body, finances and schedules. People practice for different reasons too: some practice to lose weight, some to calm their mind, while others want to build greater strength or flexibility. The wonderful thing about yoga is that you can do it anywhere, with just yourself!
The tricky part is getting yourself to do it, to do it safely, and in a way that allows you to feel some sense of progress.
I think it’s important to attend classes when you can, so an instructor can do adjustments with you, to build your awareness of how you move, how to practice safely, and how to use your breathe in a pose. These are things you can work on at home too.
However, its’ hard for people to make time each day or to feel motivated practicing on their own, which is why many choose to come to class. On the flip-side, it can feel frustrating to come to a class once a week, and feel sore after each class, or like you aren’t progressing in a pose. So, we’re back to the dilemma that not everyone can come to class more than once or twice a week, right?! ARRRRGGGGGH!!!
Fear not, I have some ideas:
1. Come to class when you can - Don’t beat yourself up when you can’t:
* Beating yourself up will make you associate attending class with a chore. Not good. But give yourself kudos when you can come to class!
* Think about creative ways to make it happen – work it out with your employer to come into work earlier, so you can leave a little earlier (and catch a class you love – most likely mine.) One of my students gave up the latte she bought every work day at almost $20/week so she could spend it on yoga classes. Some studios also have work-study opportunities… just some ideas.
* Rushing to a class does not help you enjoy the class - if you do, take a moment outside the studio door to take 3 deep breathes before entering.
2. Private lessons – Know thyself:
* You can schedule them when it’s convenient for you and do them in your own home. Invite a few friends or include family, and you can lower the cost of a one-on-one private lesson.
* You get instruction that is tailored to suit your physical/meditative needs, and goals if you choose to set some.
* For beginners, who are often shy about taking a class, you get to learn the basics, you may feel freer to ask questions, AND the instructor can really focus on you and any difficulty you have with a pose.
3. Some is better than none – Home/work practice:
* Don’t feel like you have to do the full hour/hour and a half! Ten minutes after you wake up can make a world of difference. Do 3 sun salutations, or pick 5 of your favorite poses and do them. You won’t regret it.
* At work in the middle of your day, stand up, place your hands on the desktop, step your feet back and do a variation of down-dog. Close your door and do Warrior II if you need some courage, or tree pose if you feel off-balance. Breathe!
* Keep a yoga mat in your car trunk. Keep a yoga mat or blanket rolled out at home. Some people create a little space for doing yoga in the house – for others, they go outside to the beach, a patch of grass, their patio etc.
Of COURSE I’d love it if you attended 3 (of my) classes per week – I’m trying to make a living doing this! But that’s just not practical for everyone. My overall advice about doing it every day, at home, at work…it’s possible! Doing a little bit of yoga each day will get it “in” your body. Your body will start to crave it, and you’ll find that you are turning 10 minutes into 20, 5 poses into 10, and you’ll notice the difference in your poses when you do come to class, but also in your body and your mind...that’s for sure.
So, feel free to post comments on ways YOU have been able to incorporate more yoga into your life. It just might give someone else a great idea!
Peace out,
April
Thursday, March 6, 2008
April and the magic beads
Last week was a particularly strange one for me. One day was completely wonderful, and the next I felt just awful. It was a roller coaster of nervous energy and self-doubt, and no matter how I tried to breathe through it all, it was hard to hang on for the ride. I realized, however, that the turbulence came from the difference between my expectations and my actual experiences. And here’s what I mean:
I had been looking forward to attending a particular yoga class. I’ve been courting the idea of taking another teacher training, and have been taking classes with teachers I think I would like to learn more from. So not only was I looking forward to taking a class, I was hoping to find some sign that this instructor could really be “my teacher.”
Instead, when I got to class, I found that it was her birthday, and she was splitting the class into three half-hours of different activities that involved body movement.
It was different, it was new, and I was thrown.
I had expected a yoga class. I tried to calm myself thinking, “Come on, April. Calm down, and just be open to something new. Maybe this is what you need – to learn to be flexible and playful and in the moment.” So on the class went.
We twirled toys, danced wildly, and made noises not commonly heard in a yoga class. I found myself jiggling and hopping around, and did feel a little bit like a kid. We ended with a series of salutations in a circle spreading out like a wheel that felt very unifying. But then as we began our Savasana, the instructor mentioned she had brought a prayer bead on a necklace for everyone and that as we were lulled by the musicians singing kirtan, she would go around and hand them out.
I could feel my heart beating faster, and felt my jaw unable to relax. I was suddenly anxious.
The school child in me kept praying, “Pick me! Pick me!” And I became overwhelmingly desirous of the special bead, from this special instructor, who I hoped would be “my teacher.” As I realized how much I wanted the bead, I felt very sad. Savasana seemed to last FOREVER, and I could feel its weight on my chest. I actually began to cry silently, hoping my tears would blend with the beads of sweat running down my face. I was embarrassed by my emotion.
Time ticked itself away in the rhythms of the kirtan, and vibrated through my skull. I lay there, beadless.
I felt motion around me. Then I realized everyone was getting up and the class was over. I looked around, watching people hug and tie their necklaces around themselves. I think I was one of a few people that did not get one, although the instructor still had some in her hand as she said goodbye to those students familiar to her.
I don’t think I didn’t get a bead because she did not know me, or for any particular reason. Who knows, maybe she didn’t want to disturb my meditation.
All I do know is that I did not feel comfortable asking her for a bead. So I went to my car and cried like a baby, feeling absolutely juvenile. It occurred to me, “maybe she is not ‘my teacher.’”
I’m not sure if I was so saddened because I wanted her to be my teacher, or because I did not feel comfortable asking for what I wanted. And what was it that I wanted, specifically? To find my teacher? To be chosen? To feel special?
Well, that day ended. And the next began.
I took a wonderful yoga class from another teacher, whom I adore and feel very much mentored by, and actually had a wonderful conversation with her about my “bead” experience. Talking to her about it made me feel absolutely lighter. I revealed that she might be my teacher, even if she’s not so sure herself…
I then left to teach my class at the YMCA which was packed, and just filled with people that had such great, positive, and electrifying energy. I had so much fun teaching, and felt just full of happiness as I left.
When I made it to dinner with my husband and my Abba (one of my fathers-in-law) I was so excited to tell them about it. But before I could begin, my Abba pulled out a small, plain box, and said he found something at a store that he thought I would like and seemed to suit me. “How sweet! An unexpected little gift,” I blabbed.
I opened the box to find an entire necklace of Mala beads.
I kid you not, the full Hindu rosary of 108 prayer beads was staring up at me from its humble little package. He had no idea just how special this gift was to me…
I guess what I took from this is that although we think we want certain things, the things we need often come at a time or place or from a person we least expect.
So, my question to you, my faithful readers, is this: What lesson do you think the universe was trying to send me? Post your comments if you feel so moved...
Peace, and I wish you all wonderful things in unexpected moments!
-April KirkHart
I had been looking forward to attending a particular yoga class. I’ve been courting the idea of taking another teacher training, and have been taking classes with teachers I think I would like to learn more from. So not only was I looking forward to taking a class, I was hoping to find some sign that this instructor could really be “my teacher.”
Instead, when I got to class, I found that it was her birthday, and she was splitting the class into three half-hours of different activities that involved body movement.
It was different, it was new, and I was thrown.
I had expected a yoga class. I tried to calm myself thinking, “Come on, April. Calm down, and just be open to something new. Maybe this is what you need – to learn to be flexible and playful and in the moment.” So on the class went.
We twirled toys, danced wildly, and made noises not commonly heard in a yoga class. I found myself jiggling and hopping around, and did feel a little bit like a kid. We ended with a series of salutations in a circle spreading out like a wheel that felt very unifying. But then as we began our Savasana, the instructor mentioned she had brought a prayer bead on a necklace for everyone and that as we were lulled by the musicians singing kirtan, she would go around and hand them out.
I could feel my heart beating faster, and felt my jaw unable to relax. I was suddenly anxious.
The school child in me kept praying, “Pick me! Pick me!” And I became overwhelmingly desirous of the special bead, from this special instructor, who I hoped would be “my teacher.” As I realized how much I wanted the bead, I felt very sad. Savasana seemed to last FOREVER, and I could feel its weight on my chest. I actually began to cry silently, hoping my tears would blend with the beads of sweat running down my face. I was embarrassed by my emotion.
Time ticked itself away in the rhythms of the kirtan, and vibrated through my skull. I lay there, beadless.
I felt motion around me. Then I realized everyone was getting up and the class was over. I looked around, watching people hug and tie their necklaces around themselves. I think I was one of a few people that did not get one, although the instructor still had some in her hand as she said goodbye to those students familiar to her.
I don’t think I didn’t get a bead because she did not know me, or for any particular reason. Who knows, maybe she didn’t want to disturb my meditation.
All I do know is that I did not feel comfortable asking her for a bead. So I went to my car and cried like a baby, feeling absolutely juvenile. It occurred to me, “maybe she is not ‘my teacher.’”
I’m not sure if I was so saddened because I wanted her to be my teacher, or because I did not feel comfortable asking for what I wanted. And what was it that I wanted, specifically? To find my teacher? To be chosen? To feel special?
Well, that day ended. And the next began.
I took a wonderful yoga class from another teacher, whom I adore and feel very much mentored by, and actually had a wonderful conversation with her about my “bead” experience. Talking to her about it made me feel absolutely lighter. I revealed that she might be my teacher, even if she’s not so sure herself…
I then left to teach my class at the YMCA which was packed, and just filled with people that had such great, positive, and electrifying energy. I had so much fun teaching, and felt just full of happiness as I left.
When I made it to dinner with my husband and my Abba (one of my fathers-in-law) I was so excited to tell them about it. But before I could begin, my Abba pulled out a small, plain box, and said he found something at a store that he thought I would like and seemed to suit me. “How sweet! An unexpected little gift,” I blabbed.
I opened the box to find an entire necklace of Mala beads.
I kid you not, the full Hindu rosary of 108 prayer beads was staring up at me from its humble little package. He had no idea just how special this gift was to me…
I guess what I took from this is that although we think we want certain things, the things we need often come at a time or place or from a person we least expect.
So, my question to you, my faithful readers, is this: What lesson do you think the universe was trying to send me? Post your comments if you feel so moved...
Peace, and I wish you all wonderful things in unexpected moments!
-April KirkHart
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Web site Launch for GODA Yoga!
I thank the powers that be every day for the opportunity to teach yoga. And the studios that I have the privilege to teach at are such special places to me, and of course to my students, that I do love to boast about them when I can, and as often as I can.
This is why I am so excited to let you all know that if you haven't already checked out the websites of the studios I teach at, now would be a good time! GODA Yoga has just remodeled it's website and it is just beautiful. Take a gander at the workshops page, the instructor's page, where you will find moi, and everything else it has to offer. I am so proud to be a part of this lovely studio/community!
You can visit their website at: www.godayoga.com
Stay tuned for more posts to come. In the meantime, my weekly schedule is as follows:
GODA Yoga
Sundays 12:45 - 2:15pm - Beginner level class
Your Neighborhood Studio
Mon, Fri, Sundays 9:00 - 10:30 - Yoga Flow (more vigorous)
YMCA Santa Monica
Wednesdays 6:00 - 7:25pm - Level 2/3 Flow class
This is why I am so excited to let you all know that if you haven't already checked out the websites of the studios I teach at, now would be a good time! GODA Yoga has just remodeled it's website and it is just beautiful. Take a gander at the workshops page, the instructor's page, where you will find moi, and everything else it has to offer. I am so proud to be a part of this lovely studio/community!
You can visit their website at: www.godayoga.com
Stay tuned for more posts to come. In the meantime, my weekly schedule is as follows:
GODA Yoga
Sundays 12:45 - 2:15pm - Beginner level class
Your Neighborhood Studio
Mon, Fri, Sundays 9:00 - 10:30 - Yoga Flow (more vigorous)
YMCA Santa Monica
Wednesdays 6:00 - 7:25pm - Level 2/3 Flow class
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
TWO Sunday classes, and a shout to my YMCA students...
To all of my readers who've lamented the fact that I was teaching during the week and inconveniently during your work hours... I am now teaching 2 classes on Sundays at 2 different studios! So many options, I know, your heads might explode. No really. Check it out:
Sunday Schedule:
Sunday 9:00 - 10:30 am - Your Neighborhood Studio - Yoga Flow
Sunday 12:45 - 2:15 pm - GODA Yoga - Beginner Hatha Mix
*For those of you without your yoga decoder ring - Yoga Flow is a more aerobically focused practice of yoga in the "ashtanga" or "power yoga" tradition. All levels are welcome that are prepared to sweat some. "Hatha Mix" generally has a bit of a slower pace, longer holds, so strength building and deep stretches, and you'll be surprised that sometimes holding a pose can create heat as much as moving into another pose... But this is a more beginner focused class, so those of you trying to ease back into it for the new year, this class may be for you!
Intro to Yoga Workshop: Also note, that I am teaching this workshop at GODA Yoga this Sunday, Feb. 2nd from 2:30-4:30pm. I'll be going over a brief history of yoga, talk a bit about the philosophy, and what to expect in a yoga class. Then I will lead us through a very beginner level class. If you've never done yoga before, or know someone who wants to try it, PLEASE check this class out. You get another class with this registration.
For my YMCA students:
I forgot to tell you last week that although I will be at the YMCA tomorrow during my class time, I won't be teaching your yoga class. I am required each year to take a Safety training by the Y, and a separate CPR certification class. You will have a sub tomorrow, Weds January 30th, whom I thank dearly for covering my class. I promise to see you the following week!
Keep your eyes peeled for new posts to come!
Sincerely,
April KirkHart
www.workofheartyoga.com
(310) 559-2570
workofheartyoga@gmail.com
Sunday Schedule:
Sunday 9:00 - 10:30 am - Your Neighborhood Studio - Yoga Flow
Sunday 12:45 - 2:15 pm - GODA Yoga - Beginner Hatha Mix
*For those of you without your yoga decoder ring - Yoga Flow is a more aerobically focused practice of yoga in the "ashtanga" or "power yoga" tradition. All levels are welcome that are prepared to sweat some. "Hatha Mix" generally has a bit of a slower pace, longer holds, so strength building and deep stretches, and you'll be surprised that sometimes holding a pose can create heat as much as moving into another pose... But this is a more beginner focused class, so those of you trying to ease back into it for the new year, this class may be for you!
Intro to Yoga Workshop: Also note, that I am teaching this workshop at GODA Yoga this Sunday, Feb. 2nd from 2:30-4:30pm. I'll be going over a brief history of yoga, talk a bit about the philosophy, and what to expect in a yoga class. Then I will lead us through a very beginner level class. If you've never done yoga before, or know someone who wants to try it, PLEASE check this class out. You get another class with this registration.
For my YMCA students:
I forgot to tell you last week that although I will be at the YMCA tomorrow during my class time, I won't be teaching your yoga class. I am required each year to take a Safety training by the Y, and a separate CPR certification class. You will have a sub tomorrow, Weds January 30th, whom I thank dearly for covering my class. I promise to see you the following week!
Keep your eyes peeled for new posts to come!
Sincerely,
April KirkHart
www.workofheartyoga.com
(310) 559-2570
workofheartyoga@gmail.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)