June 3, 2009
www.ElysiumYoga.com has a new logo!

www.ElysiumYoga.com has a new logo!

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Yoga for Seniors and How to Use Props

This Friday, I’m taking another step closer to my RYT. Yoga for Seniors and How to Use Props, a full day of learning how to keep my participants safe, regardless of age. I think using props and getting a refresher on how to queue them will really enhance my Beginner’s Yoga class that I teach each week. Too often I think there is a stigma around yoga that using props or a block or a strap means you’re not as good or you’re not participating as thoroughly. This mentality in itself goes against everything yoga stands for; letting go of judgment, attachment to the ego, letting go of competition or expectations about oneself and others. For anyone who feels using props at any age is a bad thing, please don’t. Don’t sacrifice your body for the glory of the pose. Wrap yourself around each and every movement only to the point of feeling something in the pose, not pain or strain. Absolutely use props if it means being able to participate and nurture your body. ~Namaste

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April 8, 2009
Loved, loved, loved my PreNatal certification. While I haven’t experienced motherhood on my own, I learned so much from the mothers there…not to mention we had to stuff our shirts with a towel or hoodie to ‘experience’ what it’s like to practice Yoga with a big belly. ElysiumYoga will definitely offer PreNatal and Postpartum classes. Can’t wait!

Loved, loved, loved my PreNatal certification. While I haven’t experienced motherhood on my own, I learned so much from the mothers there…not to mention we had to stuff our shirts with a towel or hoodie to ‘experience’ what it’s like to practice Yoga with a big belly. ElysiumYoga will definitely offer PreNatal and Postpartum classes. Can’t wait!

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November 12, 2008

Journey towards my RYT - update!

Below are the requirments for the 200 hour RYT - Registered Yoga Teacher certification through YogaFit, Inc. www.yogafit.com

Trainings complete:

  • Level I
  • Level I - Integration
  • Level II
  • Level II - Integration
  • Prenatal/Postnatal
  • Seniors/Props
  • Anatomy & Physiology- on the calendar for this Summer

Trainings to Schedule:

  • Level III
  • Level IV
  • Level V

Really anxious to keep up with these trainings.

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July 28, 2008

Time to teach corporate Yoga

During the busiest season each year, it’s hard to truly believe that there is anything to life other than work. On my journey towards realizing that there is more to what defines me than my job, I’ve decided to offer Yoga at my place of work free of charge during those busy months. Not only do I need to realize that there is more to life than my job, but the people around me need to realize this too. Class will be offered one day per week, right at 5pm.

I think the experience I’ll have in teaching Yoga in a corporate environment will be a good one. It will further my knowledge and teaching experience and will better prepare me for my own studio sessions someday.

Below is a sample waiver for Yoga that I’ve used to protect myself and my participants, as well as the company who is providing the studio / space.

Yoga

Offered at XYZ Company, Inc.

  

Participant

WAIVER AGREEMENT

  

I _________________________________(print name) understand that Yoga includes physical movements and as is the case with any physical activity, the risk of injury, even serious or disabling, is always present and cannot be entirely eliminated. If I experience any pain or discomfort, I will listen to my body, ask for modifications from the instructor and make the necessary adjustments within the pose.

Yoga is not a substitute for medical attention, examination, diagnosis or treatment. Yoga is not recommended and is not safe under certain medical conditions. I understand that I should discuss with my physician my plans to begin participation in Yoga classes.

I hereby agree to irrevocably release and waive any claims that I have now or hereafter against Instructor Name or XYZ Company.

________________________________
Signature of Participant

________________________________
Date

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July 8, 2008
I’m on a lotus flower kick right now. I want candle holders, framed photographs of lotus flowers, wall decor for my bathroom, etc… all inspired by the Lotus Flower. Enter Wikipedia: From ancient times the lotus has been a divine symbol in Hindu tradition. It is often used as an example of divine beauty, for example Vishnu is often described as the ‘Lotus-Eyed One’. Its unfolding petals suggest the expansion of the soul. The growth of its pure beauty from the mud of its origin holds a benign spiritual promise. Apparently the flower’s roots grow and extend into the muddy waters of ponds and river bottoms. The leaves and flowers, however, grow well above the surface. In fact the petals never touch the water’s surface. He who proceeds in this life and performs to the very best of ability, yearning to be one with God is unaffected by sin and will find peace in his heart. Just as the lotus flower grows beyond and expands away from the water’s surface, we too must grow beyond and expand our minds and bodies toward deeper truths and experiences. Yoga is therefore not an activity or sport, but rather a way of life. Through mindful and physical movements, we are able to realize truths. Truths about ourself, our beliefs in God, our desires toward enlightenment and a way to become more peaceful beings.

I’m on a lotus flower kick right now. I want candle holders, framed photographs of lotus flowers, wall decor for my bathroom, etc… all inspired by the Lotus Flower.

Enter Wikipedia:

From ancient times the lotus has been a divine symbol in Hindu tradition. It is often used as an example of divine beauty, for example Vishnu is often described as the ‘Lotus-Eyed One’. Its unfolding petals suggest the expansion of the soul. The growth of its pure beauty from the mud of its origin holds a benign spiritual promise.

Apparently the flower’s roots grow and extend into the muddy waters of ponds and river bottoms. The leaves and flowers, however, grow well above the surface. In fact the petals never touch the water’s surface.

He who proceeds in this life and performs to the very best of ability, yearning to be one with God is unaffected by sin and will find peace in his heart. Just as the lotus flower grows beyond and expands away from the water’s surface, we too must grow beyond and expand our minds and bodies toward deeper truths and experiences.

Yoga is therefore not an activity or sport, but rather a way of life. Through mindful and physical movements, we are able to realize truths. Truths about ourself, our beliefs in God, our desires toward enlightenment and a way to become more peaceful beings.

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April 22, 2008

Time to quit my day job... (will probably not be the last time I use this title...)

So a while ago I was thinking to myself that maybe I should teach some more yoga. I only teach once per week right now because I’m not going to lie, I like to “be a student” too. When I got married and moved out of town, I had to cut down my classes a bit. Anyways…we’re moving back so in an effort to pump up my schedule, I just put out the vibe, a similar vibe to my very first entry on this blog by the way.

So at a recent certification, the lady I sat next to put me in touch with one of her past instructors that manages a Spa and Wellnes Center. Lo and behold, they were looking for a new YogaFit certified instructor. Numbers were exchanged and the rest is history. I start tomorrow - 2 back to back classes on Wednesdays!  

Then, at the SAME certification, I ran into the fitness director for 4 local area gyms and I was offered a yoga position right then and there. He said he’d love to hire another instructor if I was interested. I still have his card.  

Then, the point guard from the Milwaukee Bucks called me (I did some work with The Bucks coaching staff over the winter) and he wants private yoga sessions here in the off season.

Then, a co-worker emailed me (the same day as above) and asked if I wanted to work part time at her gym (an even different gym) because they’re looking for new talent.

And they say “The Secret” concept doesn’t work? Ha! I’d be willing to mud wrestle anyone who says that. I’m excited that people are noticing me, interested in me, networking with me…this is how it all begins!  

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April 9, 2008

Heading to Jamaica tomorrow...

What’s more, is upon my return, I’ll begin teaching at a local spa! It’s just moments from my home, so I’ll be teaching 2x per week - a slow flow and power flow, back to back.

The spa is just beautiful - they offer tons of treatments, yoga and even sell yogic jewelry and yoga inspired clothing, etc…

I would definitely invite local artists into my studio - what a great way to involve the community and motivate talent. I’ll have to find out how they work that - if they charge artists to sell their products or if it’s 100% profit. I’m curious…

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February 20, 2008
Doesn’t this look wonderful? I booked a trip to Jamaica - it’s been snowing non stop in the Midwest. I plan to mimic this pose and think deeply about next steps toward Elysium Yoga Studio.

Doesn’t this look wonderful? I booked a trip to Jamaica - it’s been snowing non stop in the Midwest. I plan to mimic this pose and think deeply about next steps toward Elysium Yoga Studio.

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February 13, 2008
I’m crazy about this image. Will definitely need to use it for promo materials down the road for Elysium Yoga.

I’m crazy about this image. Will definitely need to use it for promo materials down the road for Elysium Yoga.

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