Yoga Teachers, Prepare for the New Year’s Rush – Part 3
Paul M. Jerard Jr. asked:
This is the last article of this series, and by now, you should be getting some fresh ideas that will help you design a couple of new Yoga classes in your studio.
Yoga on the Ball: This has been around for awhile, but it still can add some excitement to a Yoga class. Whether you use it in a workshop, or to break up a class, the stability ball can put some life into a class.
However, not everyone will like it, especially those students who have difficulty just sitting on one of these balls. Make sure anyone who is unsteady is made aware of the hazards. It is best for some to practice near a wall, or in the corner, for stability. In this case, the wall is a secondary prop. Suzanne Deason has some interesting information on using the “Balance Ball” as a prop, in DVD format.
Family Yoga: This is a great concept for most families, but it is worth noting that this type of class can attract some parents who desire to be in control of every aspect of their child’s life. This type of parent will be easily noticed from the start, when he or she corrects their son’s or daughter’s every move.
Therefore, it is best to establish who will do the cueing, assisting, and correcting. One unchecked parent can ruin the entire class. Kids acting like kids are understandable, but when parents act like kids, it is time to put your diplomatic skills to the test. That’s why it would be wise to have guidelines in place.
Partner Yoga for Singles: My wife, Marie, and I taught classes like these, and they do “break the ice.” Helping and assisting someone breaks down all the barriers. This class works better as an occasional workshop.
Laughter Yoga: The first I heard of this was when a friend of mine attended a Laughter Yoga class in Ireland. Some of the Chair Yoga classes I teach have a little humor injected into them. With all the stress people get these days, this is a stress management method that will allow Yoga students to be less serious about everyday situations.
Pet Yoga: This is a nice idea, but this is for friendly and “house trained” pets, only, unless you teach the class outside. Dog Yoga has been referred to as “Doga.” This is a great workshop concept, as long as there are no hostile pets present.
Chair Yoga: Most of these classes are held at senior centers, assisted living complexes, nursing homes, and physical rehabilitation facilities. It will be hard to establish a following at most Yoga studios, as this group is less mobile and transportation is a big issue.
© Copyright 2005 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications
This is the last article of this series, and by now, you should be getting some fresh ideas that will help you design a couple of new Yoga classes in your studio.
Yoga on the Ball: This has been around for awhile, but it still can add some excitement to a Yoga class. Whether you use it in a workshop, or to break up a class, the stability ball can put some life into a class.
However, not everyone will like it, especially those students who have difficulty just sitting on one of these balls. Make sure anyone who is unsteady is made aware of the hazards. It is best for some to practice near a wall, or in the corner, for stability. In this case, the wall is a secondary prop. Suzanne Deason has some interesting information on using the “Balance Ball” as a prop, in DVD format.
Family Yoga: This is a great concept for most families, but it is worth noting that this type of class can attract some parents who desire to be in control of every aspect of their child’s life. This type of parent will be easily noticed from the start, when he or she corrects their son’s or daughter’s every move.
Therefore, it is best to establish who will do the cueing, assisting, and correcting. One unchecked parent can ruin the entire class. Kids acting like kids are understandable, but when parents act like kids, it is time to put your diplomatic skills to the test. That’s why it would be wise to have guidelines in place.
Partner Yoga for Singles: My wife, Marie, and I taught classes like these, and they do “break the ice.” Helping and assisting someone breaks down all the barriers. This class works better as an occasional workshop.
Laughter Yoga: The first I heard of this was when a friend of mine attended a Laughter Yoga class in Ireland. Some of the Chair Yoga classes I teach have a little humor injected into them. With all the stress people get these days, this is a stress management method that will allow Yoga students to be less serious about everyday situations.
Pet Yoga: This is a nice idea, but this is for friendly and “house trained” pets, only, unless you teach the class outside. Dog Yoga has been referred to as “Doga.” This is a great workshop concept, as long as there are no hostile pets present.
Chair Yoga: Most of these classes are held at senior centers, assisted living complexes, nursing homes, and physical rehabilitation facilities. It will be hard to establish a following at most Yoga studios, as this group is less mobile and transportation is a big issue.
© Copyright 2005 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications
Pilates Certification Courses: An Overview
Simon Gelfand asked:
Pilates Exercises have been getting more and more attention from lots of people. Since its introduction to the American Population in the 1910’s, the exercise technique invented by the German national Joseph Pilates has caught the attention of millions of Americans to date. Pilates first started with simple springs attached to hospital beds for his first Pilates machine, and since then the machines, as well as the techniques used have improved so well. Pilates also has his share of students, who continued his “teachings†his studio and his work. Nowadays, the modern day Pilates instructor, need only a certification, that they indeed have the proper training to supervise a safe and effective Pilates class. Pilates certifications are offered by a vast number of firms that aside from offering Pilates certifications also hold classes for practitioners.
A Pilates Certification course basically consists of the different basic techniques in the Pilates exercise, as well as good positioning, machine work and mat exercises.
The first Pilates certification course that would probably be taught in a typical Pilates Certification class is basic matwork exercises. These are beginner and intermediate level matwork classes after which, you will be certified to teach beginner or intermediate level Pilates Class. You won’t need a machine for Pilates matwork, which make it the highest in demand because, if you’re planning on teaching Pilates for a living, you can easily start on a low budget, and teach Pilates without using Machines.
The second topic in your Pilates certification course may probably be standing Pilates; this like mat Pilates doesn’t need machines as well, but may take a bit more experience to learn because of the complicated position of standing upright, most Pilates certification schools do not teach standing Pilates until after the trainee has a certification in matwork Pilates.
After standing Pilates, is advanced matwork Pilates. The Pilates certification for advanced matwork, is given later because as its name says, it is advanced, meaning more difficult moves, which entails a higher probability of someone making a mistake. It is therefore crucial that the instructor to be is well trained before he gets an advanced matwork Pilates certification.
After the non equipment courses, the next course for Pilates certification would be the apparatus courses, where you’ll be certified as an instructor for certain machines. First, the would-be instructor is trained with the basic Pilates equipment, Cadillac, reformer, circle, and barrels. After the course, you will have a Pilates certification for apparatus. Some schools offer standing apparatus Pilates certification, as a separate training program from basic apparatus training, if you want to learn it all at once, then you’ll most likely find a certification firm that will accommodate you.
The last and probably the most complicated one is the training for people with special cases, like those with back, neck, knee, shoulder problems. These are more complicated situations and need more focus on. The only one that probably needs a better trained instructor would probably be Pilates for rehabilitation. Yes, Pilates can be used for rehabilitation, but to get a Pilates certification for rehabilitation, you must be certified in all the other Pilates techiniques, this is because most people that need rehabilitaiton are fragile and therefore need extra care, as well as extra training.
After getting a Pilates certification for every course, the trainees should have the skills to teach the exercise techniques, as well as its Pilosophical aspects to practitioners. Some schools even teach the trainees so that after they finish each course, they will also have enough skills to modify the exercise techniques to fit their class’ needs, so that after you train, you can further improve on the teachniques that we’re taught to you and apply them as the case may be.
Pilates Exercises have been getting more and more attention from lots of people. Since its introduction to the American Population in the 1910’s, the exercise technique invented by the German national Joseph Pilates has caught the attention of millions of Americans to date. Pilates first started with simple springs attached to hospital beds for his first Pilates machine, and since then the machines, as well as the techniques used have improved so well. Pilates also has his share of students, who continued his “teachings†his studio and his work. Nowadays, the modern day Pilates instructor, need only a certification, that they indeed have the proper training to supervise a safe and effective Pilates class. Pilates certifications are offered by a vast number of firms that aside from offering Pilates certifications also hold classes for practitioners.
A Pilates Certification course basically consists of the different basic techniques in the Pilates exercise, as well as good positioning, machine work and mat exercises.
The first Pilates certification course that would probably be taught in a typical Pilates Certification class is basic matwork exercises. These are beginner and intermediate level matwork classes after which, you will be certified to teach beginner or intermediate level Pilates Class. You won’t need a machine for Pilates matwork, which make it the highest in demand because, if you’re planning on teaching Pilates for a living, you can easily start on a low budget, and teach Pilates without using Machines.
The second topic in your Pilates certification course may probably be standing Pilates; this like mat Pilates doesn’t need machines as well, but may take a bit more experience to learn because of the complicated position of standing upright, most Pilates certification schools do not teach standing Pilates until after the trainee has a certification in matwork Pilates.
After standing Pilates, is advanced matwork Pilates. The Pilates certification for advanced matwork, is given later because as its name says, it is advanced, meaning more difficult moves, which entails a higher probability of someone making a mistake. It is therefore crucial that the instructor to be is well trained before he gets an advanced matwork Pilates certification.
After the non equipment courses, the next course for Pilates certification would be the apparatus courses, where you’ll be certified as an instructor for certain machines. First, the would-be instructor is trained with the basic Pilates equipment, Cadillac, reformer, circle, and barrels. After the course, you will have a Pilates certification for apparatus. Some schools offer standing apparatus Pilates certification, as a separate training program from basic apparatus training, if you want to learn it all at once, then you’ll most likely find a certification firm that will accommodate you.
The last and probably the most complicated one is the training for people with special cases, like those with back, neck, knee, shoulder problems. These are more complicated situations and need more focus on. The only one that probably needs a better trained instructor would probably be Pilates for rehabilitation. Yes, Pilates can be used for rehabilitation, but to get a Pilates certification for rehabilitation, you must be certified in all the other Pilates techiniques, this is because most people that need rehabilitaiton are fragile and therefore need extra care, as well as extra training.
After getting a Pilates certification for every course, the trainees should have the skills to teach the exercise techniques, as well as its Pilosophical aspects to practitioners. Some schools even teach the trainees so that after they finish each course, they will also have enough skills to modify the exercise techniques to fit their class’ needs, so that after you train, you can further improve on the teachniques that we’re taught to you and apply them as the case may be.
Pilates And Machines
Steven Giles asked:
During the last several years, an exercise program proving to be increasingly popular is Pilates. Its main focus is on the core postural muscle groups that aid in maintaining the balance of the body. These groups are essential in supporting the spine.
If you happen to opt for Pilates as your exercise regimen, you will discover that it instructs you in becoming aware of the spine’s neutral alignment. It will also direct your focus on adding strength to the deep postural muscles that will assist in sustaining this alignment. These muscles are of vital importance in helping you to relieve and prevent pain in the back.
The Pilates Exercise Program
The developer of the Pilates exercise system was Joseph Pilates. This system had been designed in the early 1900’s not only for improvement of his own health but also that of other World War I soldiers who were hospitalized. Later, Pilates made used the resistance of springs in his rehabilitation regimens for hospitalized patients. He then incorporated the use of springs into machines. Now the special equipment Joseph Pilates designed is being used in the Pilates exercise system.
When it first surfaced, the Pilates exercise program was mainly utilized by professional dancers. They had an appreciation for the improvement it added to strength, balance, and flexibility. With the rediscovery of Pilates in the 1980s, it has become a form of exercise that is quite popular.
Pilates Machines
The resistance of springs is used in Pilates machines to create more effort. The primary piece of the Pilates machine is called the Reformer. This is a sliding platform that is anchored at one end of the frame with springs. You are able to move the platform either by a push off from the stationary bar or by a pull on the ropes. When you do Pilates exercises with the Reformer, they become quite challenging because you must move the platform but at the same time maintain your balance on a surface that moves. This is a true balancing act!
The Cadillac is what another Pilates machine is called. It is comprised of a platform with padding that has a frame similar to a cage above it. Hanging from this frame are several bars or straps that are attached by springs.
The Wunda Chair is yet another Pilates machine. Its composition is just a bench-like platform that is small with a bar attached by springs. The Pilates exercises can be done from a standing position on the floor, lying down, or sitting or standing on the bench and pushing on the bar. You will likely see a number of different Pilates machines if you go to a studio devoted to Pilates exercise.
Mat Exercises
Group classes are where mat exercises are normally taught. Strengthening the trunk and hip muscles are the primary focus of mat exercises. This also increases spine and hip flexibility. Compared to Pilates machines, mat exercises have more limitations.
Recently, it appears as though Pilates have merged with other techniques, such as with the use of the exercise ball or yoga. This gives more creativity while one integrates the principles of Pilates into a larger number of mat exercises.
There are a range of DVD’s on sale at http://www.pilatesorstretchforbackpain.com which have been recommended by a leading British Osteopath/Physiotherapist.
Please visit my blog at http://stretchorpilatesforbackpain.com/wordpress/?feed=rss2
During the last several years, an exercise program proving to be increasingly popular is Pilates. Its main focus is on the core postural muscle groups that aid in maintaining the balance of the body. These groups are essential in supporting the spine.
If you happen to opt for Pilates as your exercise regimen, you will discover that it instructs you in becoming aware of the spine’s neutral alignment. It will also direct your focus on adding strength to the deep postural muscles that will assist in sustaining this alignment. These muscles are of vital importance in helping you to relieve and prevent pain in the back.
The Pilates Exercise Program
The developer of the Pilates exercise system was Joseph Pilates. This system had been designed in the early 1900’s not only for improvement of his own health but also that of other World War I soldiers who were hospitalized. Later, Pilates made used the resistance of springs in his rehabilitation regimens for hospitalized patients. He then incorporated the use of springs into machines. Now the special equipment Joseph Pilates designed is being used in the Pilates exercise system.
When it first surfaced, the Pilates exercise program was mainly utilized by professional dancers. They had an appreciation for the improvement it added to strength, balance, and flexibility. With the rediscovery of Pilates in the 1980s, it has become a form of exercise that is quite popular.
Pilates Machines
The resistance of springs is used in Pilates machines to create more effort. The primary piece of the Pilates machine is called the Reformer. This is a sliding platform that is anchored at one end of the frame with springs. You are able to move the platform either by a push off from the stationary bar or by a pull on the ropes. When you do Pilates exercises with the Reformer, they become quite challenging because you must move the platform but at the same time maintain your balance on a surface that moves. This is a true balancing act!
The Cadillac is what another Pilates machine is called. It is comprised of a platform with padding that has a frame similar to a cage above it. Hanging from this frame are several bars or straps that are attached by springs.
The Wunda Chair is yet another Pilates machine. Its composition is just a bench-like platform that is small with a bar attached by springs. The Pilates exercises can be done from a standing position on the floor, lying down, or sitting or standing on the bench and pushing on the bar. You will likely see a number of different Pilates machines if you go to a studio devoted to Pilates exercise.
Mat Exercises
Group classes are where mat exercises are normally taught. Strengthening the trunk and hip muscles are the primary focus of mat exercises. This also increases spine and hip flexibility. Compared to Pilates machines, mat exercises have more limitations.
Recently, it appears as though Pilates have merged with other techniques, such as with the use of the exercise ball or yoga. This gives more creativity while one integrates the principles of Pilates into a larger number of mat exercises.
There are a range of DVD’s on sale at http://www.pilatesorstretchforbackpain.com which have been recommended by a leading British Osteopath/Physiotherapist.
Please visit my blog at http://stretchorpilatesforbackpain.com/wordpress/?feed=rss2
Why Pilates Might not be Sufficient to Reach Your Fitness Goals
Zach Hunt asked:
The Pilates Method was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900’s. This form of exercise uses the mind to control muscles in the body and focuses on key muscles that keep the body balanced.
These important muscles make up one of the support systems for the spine.
By doing Pilates, you will become more aware of your breathing and of the alignment of your own spine. The ultimate goal out of this exercise system is to strengthen the muscles in the torso even though much more can be achieved by using the Pilates system correctly.
This revolutionary system requires some historical knowledge. Joseph Pilates invented the system during the First World War in an attempt to improve the mental and physical condition of war veterans.
Since Pilates was created, it has blossomed into one of the favorite exercise systems in the United States with more than 11 million using it on a regular basis.
There are many principles of the Pilates system. While the exact principles can be debated upon, the general perception is that the principles are as followed: Breathing, Centering, Concentration, Control, and Precision. Each of these principles play an important part in the Pilates system as the full benefits and effects of the Pilates system are experienced when all of these principles are utilized.
Breathing is a very important part of the Pilates system. The founder of the Pilates technique, Joseph Pilates, believed that it was important for the blood to circulate so that the cell waste created by fatigue would be removed from the body. He also believed that the blood had to contain a vast amount of oxygen in order to remove the waste products through breathing.
Due to this fact, the Pilates system is based upon the process of correct breathing. Every Pilates exercise is designed in such a way to provide for proper inhalation and exhalation of oxygen.
Centering is another key aspect of the Pilates system. The Pilates style of exercise starts at the “powerhouse” of the body. The “powerhouse” consists of the large group of muscles located in the center of the body. Another name for the “powerhouse” is the “core”, which is the term that most instructors will use
Basically, the energy generated by the Pilates system begins at the “core” and flows to the other parts of the body as the exercise session continues.
Concentration is yet another important principle of Pilates. Pilates demands a great amount of focus. From the control of your breathing to the control of your limbs, concentration is vital for a successful Pilates workout.
The entire Pilates system is built upon the idea of Control. Controlling your muscles is paramount in order to properly enjoy a true Pilates workout. The action of the muscles must be carefully calculated and under control. In doing this, you will lessen the risk of injuring yourself and therefore enjoy a better workout. Finally, Precision is another major part of the Pilates system. In order not to waste the body’s energy, the movement must be controlled and precise.
The idea of Pilates are to make precise and perfect movements instead of imperfect movements that waste energy and time. That would be a basic summary of the Pilates way of life. If you are interested in starting a Pilates chapter in your life, I recommend that you contact a personal trainer to get you stared on the right track.
The Pilates Method was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900’s. This form of exercise uses the mind to control muscles in the body and focuses on key muscles that keep the body balanced.
These important muscles make up one of the support systems for the spine.
By doing Pilates, you will become more aware of your breathing and of the alignment of your own spine. The ultimate goal out of this exercise system is to strengthen the muscles in the torso even though much more can be achieved by using the Pilates system correctly.
This revolutionary system requires some historical knowledge. Joseph Pilates invented the system during the First World War in an attempt to improve the mental and physical condition of war veterans.
Since Pilates was created, it has blossomed into one of the favorite exercise systems in the United States with more than 11 million using it on a regular basis.
There are many principles of the Pilates system. While the exact principles can be debated upon, the general perception is that the principles are as followed: Breathing, Centering, Concentration, Control, and Precision. Each of these principles play an important part in the Pilates system as the full benefits and effects of the Pilates system are experienced when all of these principles are utilized.
Breathing is a very important part of the Pilates system. The founder of the Pilates technique, Joseph Pilates, believed that it was important for the blood to circulate so that the cell waste created by fatigue would be removed from the body. He also believed that the blood had to contain a vast amount of oxygen in order to remove the waste products through breathing.
Due to this fact, the Pilates system is based upon the process of correct breathing. Every Pilates exercise is designed in such a way to provide for proper inhalation and exhalation of oxygen.
Centering is another key aspect of the Pilates system. The Pilates style of exercise starts at the “powerhouse” of the body. The “powerhouse” consists of the large group of muscles located in the center of the body. Another name for the “powerhouse” is the “core”, which is the term that most instructors will use
Basically, the energy generated by the Pilates system begins at the “core” and flows to the other parts of the body as the exercise session continues.
Concentration is yet another important principle of Pilates. Pilates demands a great amount of focus. From the control of your breathing to the control of your limbs, concentration is vital for a successful Pilates workout.
The entire Pilates system is built upon the idea of Control. Controlling your muscles is paramount in order to properly enjoy a true Pilates workout. The action of the muscles must be carefully calculated and under control. In doing this, you will lessen the risk of injuring yourself and therefore enjoy a better workout. Finally, Precision is another major part of the Pilates system. In order not to waste the body’s energy, the movement must be controlled and precise.
The idea of Pilates are to make precise and perfect movements instead of imperfect movements that waste energy and time. That would be a basic summary of the Pilates way of life. If you are interested in starting a Pilates chapter in your life, I recommend that you contact a personal trainer to get you stared on the right track.
Yoga for Life
Jean Bowler asked:
No matter what your current level of fitness; you can do, and you can benefit from, yoga. You don’t need to renounce your religion, be able to tie yourself in knots or hold your breath for ten minutes.
All you need is a desire to improve your physical and mental health – and a good guru to guide you.
The word “guru” is the combination of two Sanskrit words: “gu” meaning darkness; and “ru” meaning light.
Enjoy this journey from the darkness to the light.
Yoga is a wonderful and relaxing way to lower your stress, increase strength, balance, flexibility, endurance and ability to concentrate. People who practice yoga can retain full range of motion and excellent balance into their 90’s and beyond.
I can’t stress enough how valuable that is to quality of life.
To give you some idea, think of all the falls not taken, backs not wrenched and ankles not sprained or broken. With good range of motion and the balance to adjust to life’s little missteps, you are less likely to fall and, even if you do, you are less likely to suffer serious injury.
When anyone asks me how to come back to exercise after an injury or depression or many years as a couch potato, I recommend they begin walking and sign up for a beginner’s yoga class. When a fit exerciser hits a plateau and asks me what they can do to provide new challenges and take their body to the next level, I again suggest yoga.
Yoga is one of the world’s oldest exercise disciplines, having been practiced continually for over 5,000 years. That certainly says a lot for its content.
It is interesting to note how many “new” disciplines borrow from, or are even based on, classical yoga.
Floor Pilates should probably be named “Pilates Yoga”. It incorporates many classic yoga poses or “asanas” and emphasizes deep breathing coordinated with the movements, as well as development of the body’s “core” – all ideas central to the practice of yoga.
If you have any exercise experience, you might be surprised to learn how many of the moves you’ve picked up in various classes actually come from Hatha Yoga – the most common form of yoga practiced in the West.
Almost all of those stretches at the end of a typical aerobics class come directly from yoga. The child’s pose (garbh-asana) is sitting on your heels with head down and back rounded – and it is sooo relaxing. On hands and knees, you would probably recognize the cat back (marjari-asana) and the table (svan-asana). And what about all those wonderful twists to release the spine: seated twist (matsyendr-asana); and the knee down twist (supta matsyendr-asana).
These are the same stretches orthopedists recommend for back pain linked to stress or disuse. Lying on your back, you might recognize the knee squeeze (pavana mukt-asana) and standing, the stretch tall (tad-asana).
So it seems, you can learn a lot of yoga moves by taking a variety of exercise classes. You might ask, “Why then should I take yoga classes?”
My answer is that “doing” the poses can be quite different from doing them correctly. The coordinated breathing, the sustaining of poses and the concentration that are so integral to yoga are not likely to be achieved in a general exercise class.
Yoga teaches deep diaphragmatic breathing in tempo with each movement. Focusing on breathing allows you to transition smoothly from asana to asana and helps the muscles and joints to achieve greater range of motion.
In yoga, you will never bounce or force a stretch. You will be coached to go to your point of resistance, breathe in deeply, and stretch a tiny bit further on the exhale. You relax into the stretch; never force it.
Focusing on breathing into each asana serves yet another purpose. It takes you away from your day-to-day concerns. Once you get into your yoga zone, you will be amazed at how light you feel, how relaxed and how focused. And then, ironically, when you complete your workout and come back to earth, you will feel invigorated and energized.
Anyone undergoing a life transition or under any kind of stress (whether negative or positive) can benefit from getting away from it all and into their yoga zone where they feel calm, centered and focused. It’s a lot less expensive and easier to schedule than a vacation!
Many asanas combine the stretching of one muscle and the contraction of an opposing muscle. This is why yoga is often recommended for well-muscled athletes.
Muscle building alone results in imbalances between opposing muscles. To maintain flexibility, body builders should make sure they are getting enough proper stretching work.
Very little equipment is needed to begin yoga. Your clothing should be comfortable but close-fitting so that you can observe your form. As you focus on proper breathing you want to be able to see your diaphragm moving in and out.
Yoga can be done barefoot but, for sanitary reasons, most people now prefer to wear yoga socks.
Likewise, yoga can be done on a bare floor but most people prefer to use a mat. It is not just for sanitation that mats and socks have become so popular. Many poses are sustained and at first may feel awkward and difficult to maintain. The non-slip socks and mat provide the optimal surface. Further, your portable yoga surface will be the same no matter where you take your class, making it easier to perform consistently and progress rapidly.
No matter what your current level of fitness; you can do, and you can benefit from, yoga. You don’t need to renounce your religion, be able to tie yourself in knots or hold your breath for ten minutes.
All you need is a desire to improve your physical and mental health – and a good guru to guide you.
The word “guru” is the combination of two Sanskrit words: “gu” meaning darkness; and “ru” meaning light.
Enjoy this journey from the darkness to the light.
Yoga is a wonderful and relaxing way to lower your stress, increase strength, balance, flexibility, endurance and ability to concentrate. People who practice yoga can retain full range of motion and excellent balance into their 90’s and beyond.
I can’t stress enough how valuable that is to quality of life.
To give you some idea, think of all the falls not taken, backs not wrenched and ankles not sprained or broken. With good range of motion and the balance to adjust to life’s little missteps, you are less likely to fall and, even if you do, you are less likely to suffer serious injury.
When anyone asks me how to come back to exercise after an injury or depression or many years as a couch potato, I recommend they begin walking and sign up for a beginner’s yoga class. When a fit exerciser hits a plateau and asks me what they can do to provide new challenges and take their body to the next level, I again suggest yoga.
Yoga is one of the world’s oldest exercise disciplines, having been practiced continually for over 5,000 years. That certainly says a lot for its content.
It is interesting to note how many “new” disciplines borrow from, or are even based on, classical yoga.
Floor Pilates should probably be named “Pilates Yoga”. It incorporates many classic yoga poses or “asanas” and emphasizes deep breathing coordinated with the movements, as well as development of the body’s “core” – all ideas central to the practice of yoga.
If you have any exercise experience, you might be surprised to learn how many of the moves you’ve picked up in various classes actually come from Hatha Yoga – the most common form of yoga practiced in the West.
Almost all of those stretches at the end of a typical aerobics class come directly from yoga. The child’s pose (garbh-asana) is sitting on your heels with head down and back rounded – and it is sooo relaxing. On hands and knees, you would probably recognize the cat back (marjari-asana) and the table (svan-asana). And what about all those wonderful twists to release the spine: seated twist (matsyendr-asana); and the knee down twist (supta matsyendr-asana).
These are the same stretches orthopedists recommend for back pain linked to stress or disuse. Lying on your back, you might recognize the knee squeeze (pavana mukt-asana) and standing, the stretch tall (tad-asana).
So it seems, you can learn a lot of yoga moves by taking a variety of exercise classes. You might ask, “Why then should I take yoga classes?”
My answer is that “doing” the poses can be quite different from doing them correctly. The coordinated breathing, the sustaining of poses and the concentration that are so integral to yoga are not likely to be achieved in a general exercise class.
Yoga teaches deep diaphragmatic breathing in tempo with each movement. Focusing on breathing allows you to transition smoothly from asana to asana and helps the muscles and joints to achieve greater range of motion.
In yoga, you will never bounce or force a stretch. You will be coached to go to your point of resistance, breathe in deeply, and stretch a tiny bit further on the exhale. You relax into the stretch; never force it.
Focusing on breathing into each asana serves yet another purpose. It takes you away from your day-to-day concerns. Once you get into your yoga zone, you will be amazed at how light you feel, how relaxed and how focused. And then, ironically, when you complete your workout and come back to earth, you will feel invigorated and energized.
Anyone undergoing a life transition or under any kind of stress (whether negative or positive) can benefit from getting away from it all and into their yoga zone where they feel calm, centered and focused. It’s a lot less expensive and easier to schedule than a vacation!
Many asanas combine the stretching of one muscle and the contraction of an opposing muscle. This is why yoga is often recommended for well-muscled athletes.
Muscle building alone results in imbalances between opposing muscles. To maintain flexibility, body builders should make sure they are getting enough proper stretching work.
Very little equipment is needed to begin yoga. Your clothing should be comfortable but close-fitting so that you can observe your form. As you focus on proper breathing you want to be able to see your diaphragm moving in and out.
Yoga can be done barefoot but, for sanitary reasons, most people now prefer to wear yoga socks.
Likewise, yoga can be done on a bare floor but most people prefer to use a mat. It is not just for sanitation that mats and socks have become so popular. Many poses are sustained and at first may feel awkward and difficult to maintain. The non-slip socks and mat provide the optimal surface. Further, your portable yoga surface will be the same no matter where you take your class, making it easier to perform consistently and progress rapidly.
Yoga Teachers, Prepare for the New Year’s Rush – Part 1
Paul M. Jerard Jr. asked:
The doors will fly open on January 2nd with enthusiastic mobs of Yoga students. What can you do to prepare for the busiest stretch of the year? How can you keep their interest all year long?
If there was ever a time to clean up your Yoga studio or health club, now is the time. Depending on where you live, most of your Yoga students may be out Christmas shopping right now. This season is like the “eye of a hurricane.” It is a temporary slow spell before the busiest season for Yoga and fitness.
Bear in mind, there is a “second wind” in spring, when many Yoga students are preparing for “bathing suit season.” If you need a fresh coat of paint, or the rugs need to be shampooed, take advantage of this brief respite.
You should also have a game plan for keeping Yoga students’ interest. Do not get too far off the track, but spice up your schedule with special workshops or “pilot” classes. Yoga classes are much like spice; too many flavors can ruin your dish, or in this case, your class.
Keeping student interest has always been a challenge for teachers of any subject. With fitness or Yoga, it is easy to get flocks of students during January, in North America, with a little help from cold weather, and New Year’s resolutions. The big question is: How to keep the enthusiasm going all year long?
Therefore, open a special event class to “test the waters” for student interest. There is no sense in starting another Yoga class without researching, if there is a demand. If the crowd loves the class, you will have no problem getting sign-ups. Be certain that your sign-ups make, at least, a down payment on a class package.
It is very easy for people to sign up for a yoga class and never show up again. This is the culture of attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), and people move on to other things – like butterflies on flowers. So, you have to capture their attention and keep it. Below are some examples of workshops and classes to try in your yoga studio.
Mommy and Me Yoga Classes: This requires special patience on the part of the Yoga teacher, and female teachers will usually fare much better, especially, if the Yoga teacher has children of her own. This is an age specific niche, but there are always new mothers and new toddlers willing to try such a class.
© Copyright 2005 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications
The doors will fly open on January 2nd with enthusiastic mobs of Yoga students. What can you do to prepare for the busiest stretch of the year? How can you keep their interest all year long?
If there was ever a time to clean up your Yoga studio or health club, now is the time. Depending on where you live, most of your Yoga students may be out Christmas shopping right now. This season is like the “eye of a hurricane.” It is a temporary slow spell before the busiest season for Yoga and fitness.
Bear in mind, there is a “second wind” in spring, when many Yoga students are preparing for “bathing suit season.” If you need a fresh coat of paint, or the rugs need to be shampooed, take advantage of this brief respite.
You should also have a game plan for keeping Yoga students’ interest. Do not get too far off the track, but spice up your schedule with special workshops or “pilot” classes. Yoga classes are much like spice; too many flavors can ruin your dish, or in this case, your class.
Keeping student interest has always been a challenge for teachers of any subject. With fitness or Yoga, it is easy to get flocks of students during January, in North America, with a little help from cold weather, and New Year’s resolutions. The big question is: How to keep the enthusiasm going all year long?
Therefore, open a special event class to “test the waters” for student interest. There is no sense in starting another Yoga class without researching, if there is a demand. If the crowd loves the class, you will have no problem getting sign-ups. Be certain that your sign-ups make, at least, a down payment on a class package.
It is very easy for people to sign up for a yoga class and never show up again. This is the culture of attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), and people move on to other things – like butterflies on flowers. So, you have to capture their attention and keep it. Below are some examples of workshops and classes to try in your yoga studio.
Mommy and Me Yoga Classes: This requires special patience on the part of the Yoga teacher, and female teachers will usually fare much better, especially, if the Yoga teacher has children of her own. This is an age specific niche, but there are always new mothers and new toddlers willing to try such a class.
© Copyright 2005 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications
Yoga Teachers Lead by Example – Part 1
Paul M. Jerard Jr. asked:
During the course of a lifetime, most of us have heard the saying,” Do as I say, not as I do.” We see this kind of leadership everywhere we go. All politicians, religious leaders, police, sports professionals, parents, academic teachers, and Yoga teachers, lead by example, even if the example displayed is not a good one.
So, how does this concern you? You may not be a public figure, but your students, and the general public, know who you are. Some may even know more about you than you would like. As a Yoga teacher, you want to keep your health, behavior, and your ethics at a high standard – if you are going to be in the “public eye.”
As far as health is concerned, you should maintain your Yoga practice and meditate daily. This is an irony with many Yoga teachers because your time is also consumed with the business of Yoga, maintenance of the studio, advertising, and many more aspects that keep a business going.
My personal estimate of time that I spent on vacuuming, cleaning, and maintenance of the Yoga studio is thousands of hours before I hired someone else to do it. This does not account for any of the time spent on many other duties that go into running a Yoga studio.
The average Yoga student has no idea of the preparation and support services involved before they come to a typical Yoga class. In reality, you want them to feel relaxed, so you don’t want your Yoga students to feel stressed out over the bookkeeping, marketing, and maintenance of your Yoga studio.
Therefore, you have to put your best “game face” on during class time. This is one very powerful reason for taking the time to develop your own personal Yoga practice. You still must expand your depth of understanding Yoga’s many facets.
Why do, or did, you want to be a Yoga teacher in the first place? The most common reasons for becoming a Yoga teacher are your passion for Yoga and to share the gift that has changed your life. Your health and your personal Yoga practice are an integral part of the Yoga teaching vocation.
Maybe you don’t have a staff and you are busy all the time preparing for the next Yoga class. What can you do? Budget your time and make a personal Yoga, or meditation session, for yourself. Spending thousands of hours on bookkeeping, marketing, cleaning, and maintenance is part of many Yoga studio owners’ lives, but you must also make the time to become a better Yoga practitioner.
You can also offer reduced rates to volunteers or “work for trade” programs to those Yoga students who help you with “domestic chores.” You should consult your accountant to make sure everything is legal and “above board.” You don’t want to violate any child labor laws or set yourself up for any legal problems, so make sure you are following the law “to the letter.” Remember also, that laws vary depending upon your location.
It’s too easy to let the business of Yoga become your new reality. The business of teaching Yoga is more time consuming than any of us can imagine as Yoga students. If you are spending so much time working on your Yoga business, that you have little time to practice, you must re-evaluate your reason for teaching Yoga.
Make time every day to expand your knowledge about Yoga’s many aspects. If you don’t take the time to be a Yoga student and engage in learning, continuing education, and nurturing your passion for Yoga, you risk burn out. The best Yoga teachers are students for life, who love to practice this wonderful discipline we know as Yoga.
When your Yoga studio, Yoga teaching position, or ashram becomes a daily burden, and you cannot expand your knowledge; the end result is no different than any other job. As a Yoga teacher, you owe it to your students to keep your “internal flames of passion” for Yoga going.
© Copyright 2005 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications
During the course of a lifetime, most of us have heard the saying,” Do as I say, not as I do.” We see this kind of leadership everywhere we go. All politicians, religious leaders, police, sports professionals, parents, academic teachers, and Yoga teachers, lead by example, even if the example displayed is not a good one.
So, how does this concern you? You may not be a public figure, but your students, and the general public, know who you are. Some may even know more about you than you would like. As a Yoga teacher, you want to keep your health, behavior, and your ethics at a high standard – if you are going to be in the “public eye.”
As far as health is concerned, you should maintain your Yoga practice and meditate daily. This is an irony with many Yoga teachers because your time is also consumed with the business of Yoga, maintenance of the studio, advertising, and many more aspects that keep a business going.
My personal estimate of time that I spent on vacuuming, cleaning, and maintenance of the Yoga studio is thousands of hours before I hired someone else to do it. This does not account for any of the time spent on many other duties that go into running a Yoga studio.
The average Yoga student has no idea of the preparation and support services involved before they come to a typical Yoga class. In reality, you want them to feel relaxed, so you don’t want your Yoga students to feel stressed out over the bookkeeping, marketing, and maintenance of your Yoga studio.
Therefore, you have to put your best “game face” on during class time. This is one very powerful reason for taking the time to develop your own personal Yoga practice. You still must expand your depth of understanding Yoga’s many facets.
Why do, or did, you want to be a Yoga teacher in the first place? The most common reasons for becoming a Yoga teacher are your passion for Yoga and to share the gift that has changed your life. Your health and your personal Yoga practice are an integral part of the Yoga teaching vocation.
Maybe you don’t have a staff and you are busy all the time preparing for the next Yoga class. What can you do? Budget your time and make a personal Yoga, or meditation session, for yourself. Spending thousands of hours on bookkeeping, marketing, cleaning, and maintenance is part of many Yoga studio owners’ lives, but you must also make the time to become a better Yoga practitioner.
You can also offer reduced rates to volunteers or “work for trade” programs to those Yoga students who help you with “domestic chores.” You should consult your accountant to make sure everything is legal and “above board.” You don’t want to violate any child labor laws or set yourself up for any legal problems, so make sure you are following the law “to the letter.” Remember also, that laws vary depending upon your location.
It’s too easy to let the business of Yoga become your new reality. The business of teaching Yoga is more time consuming than any of us can imagine as Yoga students. If you are spending so much time working on your Yoga business, that you have little time to practice, you must re-evaluate your reason for teaching Yoga.
Make time every day to expand your knowledge about Yoga’s many aspects. If you don’t take the time to be a Yoga student and engage in learning, continuing education, and nurturing your passion for Yoga, you risk burn out. The best Yoga teachers are students for life, who love to practice this wonderful discipline we know as Yoga.
When your Yoga studio, Yoga teaching position, or ashram becomes a daily burden, and you cannot expand your knowledge; the end result is no different than any other job. As a Yoga teacher, you owe it to your students to keep your “internal flames of passion” for Yoga going.
© Copyright 2005 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications