Point Reyes Elk

Thought I would post this photo from my hike since I've emailed it to several people and received positive feedback. The area is an elk preserve and we saw dozens of these animals. It was the first time I've seen elk in the wild. They were serene.

Personal Practice Week 8 of 10: Post-Thanksgiving Yoga Intensive

On "Black Friday" when so many Americans and many of my students were out shopping, I decided to take the day to practice yoga. I participated in a four-hour intensive at The Yoga Room in Berkeley under the guidance of Mary Lou Weprin.

Self-Awareness

I realized that a day of shopping or even being on the road would cause me stress. So, instead I committed to a day of yoga.

Self-Regulation

As soon as I walked into the yoga studio I felt centered, grounded and relaxed. However, I had some advance anxiety about participating in this intensive and the voice in my head said:  Who would be there? What if I can't do the poses? What if I get tired? What if my shoulder and hamstring injuries flare up?
 

Motivation

I was motivated to find some flexibility and personal time amongst the go-go-go of the long weekend.

Empathy 

During the intensive I practiced a half handstand and Mary Lou reminded me that I have a shoulder injury and to take it easy. I sometimes push myself too hard and think that I can get past the injury. In fact, it made my shoulder sore. I needed to practice some more self-empathy.

Social Skill

I am a very private person and in the yoga studio, I like to keep to myself when in a big class. We worked in groups of two and threes at some points and it was a real effort for me to find a partner or trio. Part of this was because I had so much garlic at Thanksgiving that I was aware of my garlic breath. It may seem silly but throughout the entire four hours I kept eating Altoids.

Point Reyes Hike With Lucy

Perfect ending to the long weekend.