Astanga

I had a wonderful practice today. In fact, I had a wonderful day.

I woke early, did my half-hour of meditation, then 90 minutes of Full Primary with the Power Yoga DVD. Everything flowed smoothly and easily. Sirsasana was particularly strong today, Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana was particularly challenging (I misplaced my balance this week, need to find it!) and everything else fell into place (except Garba Pindasana, which just fell apart, but I got a good laugh out of it).

As I was practising Baddha Konasana, my mind started wandering. I wondered why Beryl doesn't teach the second version of Baddha Konasana (with the back rounded, forehead to toes). I'm sure there's a good reason. Does someone know? Anyone? Bueller? Jen?

Speaking of Beryl, Christine commented recently and shared this amazing video of Beryl Bender Birch talking about her own philosophy of teaching (courtesty of the Omega Retreat Centre in New York). Wise words from a great teacher: 'You need to practice in order to teach.' I know I wouldn't be an effective teacher without my practice. Daily practice is fertile ground for all of my best ideas and innovations as a teacher. It keeps me fresh and inspired.

It' s my girlfriend's birthday tonight. I stopped by the store to pick up a Chocolate Truffle Cake after my noon class. This is a classic example of a 'selfish gift'. I love chocolate and sweet things, but she doesn't find as much joy in sweets as I do. She'll enjoy the cake anyway. And I knit her a fabulous blue toque that I know she'll love, so it's all good. :-)

I'm heading into the weekend with a pile of amazing books waiting to be read and lots of fun knitting ahead of me. I'm getting ready to turn the heel on that sock I'm working on. The sock is scaring me - I've put a lot of work into it. The Lululemon people say you should 'do one thing a day that scares you'. Glad to know I'm living up to my full potential!

The weather is supposed to be fabulous here, by the way. Sunday may be the perfect day to go to the Really Big Park and have a Autumn Picnic!