I have been a mix of super productive and super lazy. As I prepare to launch Namaste Gourmet I am writing all of the copy for the website and my coaching welcome packets, and also coaching myself through Mastering Life's Energies. I also picked up Becoming a Professional Life Coach as well as a book on how to get clients to come to me rather than the other way around. It's a lot to take on.
While I do feel like I'm a natural coach based on my personality and past experiences, this book is super helpful. It also freaks me out a bit since it's helpful to have lots of knowledge in the tool box. I have a feeling I will be reading it again as soon as I complete it. And I will use it as a reference with clients on a regular basis.
The book on getting clients to come to me is truly scary. I actually put it down during the introduction because it asked about doing too much. Not having a true focus for your practice whatever it is. And since I'm launching Namaste Gourmet with yoga, coaching AND officiating I felt like I was called out and ducked my head so I would not be seen by the teacher.
When I read that I did immediately decide to let the personal cheffing go. I don't completely love it and I rarely get satisfaction from cooking for clients. I prefer to keep my cooking to myself and a small number of friends and family. However, I will keep the others, but think I will need marketing campaigns for EACH.
I think I will contact all of the local event planners for all things wedding. Hopefully I can get a few of them interested in my wedding yoga and counseling first and then my officiating. I should also be able to do one of the Groupon or similar companies to promote the private yoga. And lastly, networking organizations will be perfect for Life Coaching. I did register the domain namastegourmetny.com yesterday so hopefully the site will be live soon and I can just spread the word far and wide.
I am really looking forward to the business growing and hope will it bring me happiness and prosperity in 2012.
Gratitudes:
1. Not being needed for jury duty so I can play today
2. wine
3. getting better at the ukulele
4. coffee
5. good parking karma
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Should I Stay or Should I Go?
That is the question I posed to my Facebook friends as I pondered if I should get out of my pajamas at 5:30PM and go to yoga. I waited for a brief moment and upon the thought that I have been in my PJs ALL DAY I got dressed, grabbed my yoga mat and walked up 17th Street to the studio. As I had the studio in view I realized that the instructor tonight usually teaches at a Level 1. When I took her class the other day, I was bored out of my skull until I just shut it off and enjoyed the zen of YET ANOTHER child's pose.
Tonight there was a full class and she fessed up to the fact that she usually teaches a beginner class and encouraged us to find our own way if we needed to challenge ourselves more. That takes guts to say. I did my best to shut off my teacher brain, but it gave me some gentle reminders for my own teaching practice.
1. When you mess up, correct it and move on. No need to comment.
2. It really helps to MIRROR the students, if you face them. Otherwise they get confused.
3. When giving adjustments, SLOW DOWN. The student needs a moment to take in the touch.
4. Don't assume everyone feels the same as you. Just because you are hot that doesn't mean EVERYONE needs to go to CHILD'S POSE to cool down.
I stopped on my way home for soup at the Take It Easy Thai - for real, that's the name. I also whipped up some collards and spicy tofu - since that's how I roll.
I also came back to these responses to my question. Here they are:
Tonight there was a full class and she fessed up to the fact that she usually teaches a beginner class and encouraged us to find our own way if we needed to challenge ourselves more. That takes guts to say. I did my best to shut off my teacher brain, but it gave me some gentle reminders for my own teaching practice.
1. When you mess up, correct it and move on. No need to comment.
2. It really helps to MIRROR the students, if you face them. Otherwise they get confused.
3. When giving adjustments, SLOW DOWN. The student needs a moment to take in the touch.
4. Don't assume everyone feels the same as you. Just because you are hot that doesn't mean EVERYONE needs to go to CHILD'S POSE to cool down.
I stopped on my way home for soup at the Take It Easy Thai - for real, that's the name. I also whipped up some collards and spicy tofu - since that's how I roll.
I also came back to these responses to my question. Here they are:
Monday, December 26, 2011
Day After Update
So, yesterday went by without a hitch - well, a few little hiccups, but largely successful. I quickly skadoodled after breakfast to make it to the 11:40AM showing of We Bought a Zoo and stayed to see Hugo in the theatre next door. I was going to give the theatre a little extra revenue by buying a soda pop but the line was so long, I just had time to run to the loo before heading back in the theatre.
The theatre was super small so I got a single seat between parties. As I shimmied in the row, I apparently knocked the guy on the aisles chair in the row in front of me. He gave me a look as I sat down. The theatre was super dark so no reading. However as the woman next to me was munching on something in tin foil that she brought with her I saw something puzzling.
3D GLASSES!
Uh oh! I bet they only give those out at the ticket booth. And since I was sneaking in to movie #2 that was not going to happen. So, I stealthily exited my row and walked out of the theatre to see the box where you return your glasses at the end of the film. Luckily no one was around, so I opened the top and grabbed a pair before heading back inside and back to my seat.
Both movies were good. Boys coming of age stories. Feel good movies that made me cry just a bit. And since it's been a while since I've seen a 3D movie, that was a pleasure.
The movie got out just after 4, so I headed to the Chinese restaurant around the corner - CLOSED!
Closed!
So, I did see the not recommended Chinese place open, but decided to walk down the street for other options. The only place open was a Thai restaurant. So I walked back there and had a delicious Salmon curry with Brown Rice.
The walk back home down Grand was nice. A few more restaurants had opened and I caught up on a Sex Nerd Sandra podcast. Once home I did wash a "load" of dishes, pour myself a Cosmo and sit on the couch with the ukulele. I am teaching myself Can't Help Falling in Love with You on top of You Are My Sunshine, When the Saints Coming Marching In and Hallelujah already assigned by Dan. Hopefully I am not annoying my neighbors too much.
Not too much to report from the moving front. No new jobs posted yet today. I think it's still too early for housing but I do need to select a mover and sell (or give away) whatever I don't want to take with.
But with overcast skies, I don't think there will be any progress on that today. I will keep up with my Personal Coaching book and do the next task in Mastering Life's Energies, and continue with the dishes before teaching my second yoga class this evening.
The theatre was super small so I got a single seat between parties. As I shimmied in the row, I apparently knocked the guy on the aisles chair in the row in front of me. He gave me a look as I sat down. The theatre was super dark so no reading. However as the woman next to me was munching on something in tin foil that she brought with her I saw something puzzling.
3D GLASSES!
Uh oh! I bet they only give those out at the ticket booth. And since I was sneaking in to movie #2 that was not going to happen. So, I stealthily exited my row and walked out of the theatre to see the box where you return your glasses at the end of the film. Luckily no one was around, so I opened the top and grabbed a pair before heading back inside and back to my seat.
Both movies were good. Boys coming of age stories. Feel good movies that made me cry just a bit. And since it's been a while since I've seen a 3D movie, that was a pleasure.
The movie got out just after 4, so I headed to the Chinese restaurant around the corner - CLOSED!
Closed!
So, I did see the not recommended Chinese place open, but decided to walk down the street for other options. The only place open was a Thai restaurant. So I walked back there and had a delicious Salmon curry with Brown Rice.
The walk back home down Grand was nice. A few more restaurants had opened and I caught up on a Sex Nerd Sandra podcast. Once home I did wash a "load" of dishes, pour myself a Cosmo and sit on the couch with the ukulele. I am teaching myself Can't Help Falling in Love with You on top of You Are My Sunshine, When the Saints Coming Marching In and Hallelujah already assigned by Dan. Hopefully I am not annoying my neighbors too much.
Not too much to report from the moving front. No new jobs posted yet today. I think it's still too early for housing but I do need to select a mover and sell (or give away) whatever I don't want to take with.
But with overcast skies, I don't think there will be any progress on that today. I will keep up with my Personal Coaching book and do the next task in Mastering Life's Energies, and continue with the dishes before teaching my second yoga class this evening.
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Merry and a Happy!
It's an overcast, but wanting to be sunny day in Oakland, CA. My day is wide open with possibility and I am excited about reducing my carbon footprint and hoofing it to the movies later at Grand Lake and then heading to the Chinese restaurant around the corner from the theater.
It's amazing how messy my apartment gets so fast. I will take a bit of time to clean some dishes before I go. I aim to have a clean house by the end of the day and put my feet up with a Cosmo and practice my ukulele by the glow of the Menorah!
But for now, I'm trying a new breakfast recipe. Brooke at the catering kitchen told me that she would be making her mom's egg dish this morning. Bread in a muffin tin with an egg - baked to perfection. My bread was a little thick and my eggs were a little large so they are baking for more like 20 minutes, rather than the 12 that she mentioned. I put a little tapenade on the bottom and I have a feeling that these will be super yummy. A little refresher on my coffee and I believe the morning is turning out quite well.
Some gratitudes:
1. holiday catering with lovely clients
2. my new website just about ready to launch
3. fresh honey (and a donation in my honor) from lovely friends
4. sunshine
5. yoga
It's amazing how messy my apartment gets so fast. I will take a bit of time to clean some dishes before I go. I aim to have a clean house by the end of the day and put my feet up with a Cosmo and practice my ukulele by the glow of the Menorah!
But for now, I'm trying a new breakfast recipe. Brooke at the catering kitchen told me that she would be making her mom's egg dish this morning. Bread in a muffin tin with an egg - baked to perfection. My bread was a little thick and my eggs were a little large so they are baking for more like 20 minutes, rather than the 12 that she mentioned. I put a little tapenade on the bottom and I have a feeling that these will be super yummy. A little refresher on my coffee and I believe the morning is turning out quite well.Some gratitudes:
1. holiday catering with lovely clients
2. my new website just about ready to launch
3. fresh honey (and a donation in my honor) from lovely friends
4. sunshine
5. yoga
Thursday, December 22, 2011
A Little Lucky!
I completely forgot what day it was. In fact, I think I parked on my block on an evening that's not allowed with parking restrictions and I didn't get a ticket. Either I got completely lucky or the gods were with me. I am completely thankful.
Maxie let me sleep until 7:15AM and I stayed in bed piddling on the computer for an hour until I got up. I was prepped to bike to Farley's East for breakfast, but something was up with my back tire. So, I threw by bike back in the basement of my building and hoofed it to Grand Ave. I brought Mastering Life's Energies with a notebook and got a handle on my fog and my biggest obstacles. I also had a nice exchange with the dude sitting next to me as I ate my breakfast sandwich and drank my yummy coffee. He got an automated phone call and even though I was deep in concentration in my book, once off the phone he needed to share the current tactics of those who scam based on financial details and credit cards. Apparently this guy applied for a credit card and started getting spam messages right afterwards. He was not sure why, but it was a little disconcerting. Not because he would fall for it, but for others who may not be as wise.
It got me thinking that if I am not working, I am usually at home. I live in a hobbit hole, but I am super comfortable there. I do need that human connection and interaction. And it's completely normal. So why I try and save money by eating at home and certainly brewing coffee there, it does make sense for the social aspect to get out.
As I read Mastering Life's Energies, I am starting to get to the working part. Where I start to apply the theory and concepts to my situation and complete some exercises. It's pretty scary because I am beginning to call myself out. Obstacles and censors are starting to ring true and while I hold on to the familiar, I know that I need to venture out. Trust what is not working and move onto a new adventure.
I have time tomorrow do continue to do that. But for the moment, how 'bout a little gratitude?
1. the idea for a great product to supplement Namaste Gourmet
2. yoga
3. laundry in the building
4. sunshine
5. benevolent parking gods (I think)
Maxie let me sleep until 7:15AM and I stayed in bed piddling on the computer for an hour until I got up. I was prepped to bike to Farley's East for breakfast, but something was up with my back tire. So, I threw by bike back in the basement of my building and hoofed it to Grand Ave. I brought Mastering Life's Energies with a notebook and got a handle on my fog and my biggest obstacles. I also had a nice exchange with the dude sitting next to me as I ate my breakfast sandwich and drank my yummy coffee. He got an automated phone call and even though I was deep in concentration in my book, once off the phone he needed to share the current tactics of those who scam based on financial details and credit cards. Apparently this guy applied for a credit card and started getting spam messages right afterwards. He was not sure why, but it was a little disconcerting. Not because he would fall for it, but for others who may not be as wise.
It got me thinking that if I am not working, I am usually at home. I live in a hobbit hole, but I am super comfortable there. I do need that human connection and interaction. And it's completely normal. So why I try and save money by eating at home and certainly brewing coffee there, it does make sense for the social aspect to get out.
As I read Mastering Life's Energies, I am starting to get to the working part. Where I start to apply the theory and concepts to my situation and complete some exercises. It's pretty scary because I am beginning to call myself out. Obstacles and censors are starting to ring true and while I hold on to the familiar, I know that I need to venture out. Trust what is not working and move onto a new adventure.
I have time tomorrow do continue to do that. But for the moment, how 'bout a little gratitude?
1. the idea for a great product to supplement Namaste Gourmet
2. yoga
3. laundry in the building
4. sunshine
5. benevolent parking gods (I think)
Making it Real
In the car on the way to the airport coming back to San Francisco after Thanksgiving, my parents asked me yet again what I want for Chanukah. As per the usual, I say 'nothing.' There's nothing that I really need or want. So, finally I asked my mom in return and she said she wanted me back in NY. So after lots of thought about timing and jobs, I decided to make my way back to the right coast even if I don't have everything secure.
And I told my parents yesterday - on the eve of Chanukah.
My mom is a planning machine. So she's already called numerous times about dates and flights. I also got information on apartments from each of my parents. They are super excited, and I really appreciate their assistance. However, they do not tend to ASK the help I need and just assume and TELL me what I should do. It drives me a little crazy. But nevertheless, it's now real. Well, it looks like the actual flight will be on Monday or Tuesday, March 5 or 6. I aim to ship my stuff the week prior and order whatever I need to be delivered before I arrive.
So, I went back and started looking at the beginnings of this blog and have a feeling that I will discontinue once I'm settled back in the East.
There are a number of things that I would like to do before I head out. Since I don't have the same support circle nor the roots in the area as I did in Atlanta, I am not sure how much I will share the news of my departure before I go. I certainly don't want a hoopla or anything. But that's something I need to figure out.
Keeping the Gratitudes coming:
1. my yoga students for understanding my extreme lateness to class today due to my alarm failing to wake me up
2. holiday tunes at the sushi restaurant
3. having left over Chanukah candles from last year!
4. my parents
5. time to get my car serviced today
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Goofy Tuesday
I just got a series of photos from a wedding I officiated in Atlanta a few months ago. Since the couple is dear friends of mine, I left the seriousness of the ritual go after the ceremony and let my hair down with some good friends. Happy Tuesday!
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Back on Track
I am pretty sure I have used this title before, but the new version of blogger doesn't auto type in that field anymore. I have been super tired lately. I'm hoping that it's just catching up on well needed sleep, but here's to not being sick without health insurance.
The next two weeks - well, next 2 months are pretty light work wise, so I do have plenty of time to prep for my exodus back to the East Coast. I have laid those plans, I just need to come to terms with the fact that I am leaving and actually plan the move. I'm hoping that someone would want to fly with me and take one of my cats, but I have a feeling that my mom will fly in from Florida and take Lincoln while I take Mr. Max, crazy cat. But we'll see where all of this lands, since I didn't tell my parents yet.
I should probably start selling my furniture and truly letting go of all I don't need and prep re-entry on the other side. Lots to do, but lots of time to do it. And fingers crossed that I job comes through in the meantime.
Gratitudes:
1. a bit of work lately
2. nice compliments on my toes yesterday from 2 strangers (??!!)
3. a lovely walk around Lake Merritt today
4. catering leftovers
5. the air of possibility
The next two weeks - well, next 2 months are pretty light work wise, so I do have plenty of time to prep for my exodus back to the East Coast. I have laid those plans, I just need to come to terms with the fact that I am leaving and actually plan the move. I'm hoping that someone would want to fly with me and take one of my cats, but I have a feeling that my mom will fly in from Florida and take Lincoln while I take Mr. Max, crazy cat. But we'll see where all of this lands, since I didn't tell my parents yet.
I should probably start selling my furniture and truly letting go of all I don't need and prep re-entry on the other side. Lots to do, but lots of time to do it. And fingers crossed that I job comes through in the meantime.
Gratitudes:
1. a bit of work lately
2. nice compliments on my toes yesterday from 2 strangers (??!!)
3. a lovely walk around Lake Merritt today
4. catering leftovers
5. the air of possibility
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Puzzling Analytics
I am not sure when blogger got a facelift, but it's been a little while that I've been able to track how many people visit my blog each day, which entries they look at and what country they're from.
I got a little bump about a month ago. I noticed that 18 people visited my blog that day. I know it doesn't sound like a lot, but as I've written in the past, my blog is just not that active. As I was leaving Atlanta, my blog was a place for people to get the skinny on what was new and to let people know my parting activities and a way to join in. However, since I moved readership has been fairly light and I am doing it for me. To note where I've been and to see subtle changes from day to day and greater ones (or the same questions) from year to year.
However, lately I have seen larger numbers of people reviewing the blog. Mostly from Russia, Germany, China, Latvia and the US. And this is the entry that's viewed each day more than all of the others. Most of my entries have less than 5 viewers - if they've been viewed at all. However, the post on documentation - as I leave Davis and move to Berkeley has been viewed 83 times as of today. Eighty-three!! It may be a class or a recommended blog post. I really don't know.
Anybody want to give me a clue?
I got a little bump about a month ago. I noticed that 18 people visited my blog that day. I know it doesn't sound like a lot, but as I've written in the past, my blog is just not that active. As I was leaving Atlanta, my blog was a place for people to get the skinny on what was new and to let people know my parting activities and a way to join in. However, since I moved readership has been fairly light and I am doing it for me. To note where I've been and to see subtle changes from day to day and greater ones (or the same questions) from year to year.
However, lately I have seen larger numbers of people reviewing the blog. Mostly from Russia, Germany, China, Latvia and the US. And this is the entry that's viewed each day more than all of the others. Most of my entries have less than 5 viewers - if they've been viewed at all. However, the post on documentation - as I leave Davis and move to Berkeley has been viewed 83 times as of today. Eighty-three!! It may be a class or a recommended blog post. I really don't know.
Anybody want to give me a clue?
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Feel the Love
Today was my last day teaching two after school drama classes. This whole session felt a little funky - with kids signing up late, not showing up on a regular basis - I just could not get any consistency. So with the final session there usually is a little presentation with the parents watching, but that just didn't happen today. Most of the kids didn't know today was the last class and only one parent showed up (late) in the older group and I believe a grandmother and a younger sister showed up in the younger group.
The older girls did well. They have tons of potential and I would love to continue to work with them. But since I really don't have the expertise to tame the younger ones and I will most likely be gone by the middle of February, I will not be teaching them again. I have to say that once a week is hard. You get on a groove and then you need to wait 7 days to pick it up again.
The younger ones were all touchy feely but they have such problems with attention and focus that there's very little I can get done. I do like their hugs, but it's so frustrating when they all talk at once.
I am torn between arts administration and teaching. I really like both. I sent in 2 job applications today - for part-time work, which would allow me to work on Namaste Gourmet.
Fingers crossed that one of them comes through, that I start picking up some clients and that the transition is smooth.
Gratitudes:
1. Cosmopolitans
2. yoga
3. garlic and leftovers
4. warm clothing
5. snuggly kitties - can you tell it's getting colder?
The older girls did well. They have tons of potential and I would love to continue to work with them. But since I really don't have the expertise to tame the younger ones and I will most likely be gone by the middle of February, I will not be teaching them again. I have to say that once a week is hard. You get on a groove and then you need to wait 7 days to pick it up again.
The younger ones were all touchy feely but they have such problems with attention and focus that there's very little I can get done. I do like their hugs, but it's so frustrating when they all talk at once.
I am torn between arts administration and teaching. I really like both. I sent in 2 job applications today - for part-time work, which would allow me to work on Namaste Gourmet.
Fingers crossed that one of them comes through, that I start picking up some clients and that the transition is smooth.
Gratitudes:
1. Cosmopolitans
2. yoga
3. garlic and leftovers
4. warm clothing
5. snuggly kitties - can you tell it's getting colder?
Monday, December 12, 2011
Ass Kicked!
I worked a 14 hour day yesterday as the culmination of working the past 4 days on catering jobs. The money is good, but today was a big waste. I got home at 3:30AM this morning and even my cats let me sleep until 8:30AM. I got up to feed them and then went right back to sleep. I eventually got up at 11:30AM, but didn't get out of my PJs until I took a shower around 6PM and moved my car to a place that I would not get a ticket in the wee hours today.
I did hope to be more productive today, but my body could not handle it. I did feel myself getting a little sick last night, so I needed a full day to recoup. My first thought on this is - man, I'm old. It takes a lot for me to bounce back now, and that stinks. So, no yoga, only minimal reading and therefore lots of streaming on my computer.
Tomorrow is my last day teaching at All Saints and this week is fairly light. I need to make plans with Namaste Gourmet so I actually have money coming in. I am trying not to freak out.
Some things to be grateful for:
1. catering leftovers
2. kind yoga students
3. my personal practice - and a yoga studio close by
4. lots of movies and TV streaming options
5. snuggly kitties
I did hope to be more productive today, but my body could not handle it. I did feel myself getting a little sick last night, so I needed a full day to recoup. My first thought on this is - man, I'm old. It takes a lot for me to bounce back now, and that stinks. So, no yoga, only minimal reading and therefore lots of streaming on my computer.
Tomorrow is my last day teaching at All Saints and this week is fairly light. I need to make plans with Namaste Gourmet so I actually have money coming in. I am trying not to freak out.
Some things to be grateful for:
1. catering leftovers
2. kind yoga students
3. my personal practice - and a yoga studio close by
4. lots of movies and TV streaming options
5. snuggly kitties
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Luminosity update
I really enjoy using Maria Nemeth's book to guide my yoga practice - and teaching practice this week. I find people are enjoying the word LUMINOUS. It's such a wonderful word.
lu·mi·nous/ˈlo͞omÉ™nÉ™s/
Dr. Nemeth breaks it down into 4 categories: Grace, Ease, Focus and Clarity.
So in my class on Monday and my two classes today we played with these ideas as we practiced our asana. And it's been wonderful.
I really enjoy teaching and it will be sad to let my 6AM class go. As I write my business plan and work to make Namaste Gourmet sustainable, I look forward to sharing my practice with more people in a complete way.
I have started to make space for what's next, but I hope I don't dig into my savings in the process. I hope that I didn't make a huge mistake by throwing caution to the wind and letting go before I had all ducks in a row and lots of security.
But for the time being let's release security and take on LUMINOSITY!
What am I grateful for you ask?
1. Living by myself without someone to judge how I live
2. yoga
3. Catering gigs the rest of the week
4. sunshine
5. Warmth - in the form of clothing and my apartment
Webster defines it this way:
lu·mi·nous/ˈlo͞omÉ™nÉ™s/
| Adjective: |
|
Dr. Nemeth breaks it down into 4 categories: Grace, Ease, Focus and Clarity.
So in my class on Monday and my two classes today we played with these ideas as we practiced our asana. And it's been wonderful.
I really enjoy teaching and it will be sad to let my 6AM class go. As I write my business plan and work to make Namaste Gourmet sustainable, I look forward to sharing my practice with more people in a complete way.
I have started to make space for what's next, but I hope I don't dig into my savings in the process. I hope that I didn't make a huge mistake by throwing caution to the wind and letting go before I had all ducks in a row and lots of security.
But for the time being let's release security and take on LUMINOSITY!
What am I grateful for you ask?
1. Living by myself without someone to judge how I live
2. yoga
3. Catering gigs the rest of the week
4. sunshine
5. Warmth - in the form of clothing and my apartment
Monday, December 5, 2011
Monday Gratitudes!
Yoga teaching, finishing up my personal assistant duties, after school teaching, yoga taking and now WINE!
My apartment is a mess, but it's still been a productive day. I got through my after school residency without completely losing my voice and the youngers were largely engaged during most of the class. In general they are so attention deprived, that they all want to talk and DO everything. They never want to sit and watch each other EVER. I need to build the class around that and not fight it.
I'm fighting it.
I am also fighting some of the older kids wanting to help their peers. I have some super smart girls in the class who "get it" before the others. And they they side coach them. It drives me crazy, but I think I need to take the smarties aside and let them know that I know they've got it, but ask them to allow the others the time to figure it out on their own.
It's been a bit since I've acknowledged my gratitudes, so here we go, again!
1. sunny days
2. snuggly kitties
3. catering leftovers - like Humboldt Fog cheese!
4. yoga
5. the start of something new
My apartment is a mess, but it's still been a productive day. I got through my after school residency without completely losing my voice and the youngers were largely engaged during most of the class. In general they are so attention deprived, that they all want to talk and DO everything. They never want to sit and watch each other EVER. I need to build the class around that and not fight it.
I'm fighting it.
I am also fighting some of the older kids wanting to help their peers. I have some super smart girls in the class who "get it" before the others. And they they side coach them. It drives me crazy, but I think I need to take the smarties aside and let them know that I know they've got it, but ask them to allow the others the time to figure it out on their own.
It's been a bit since I've acknowledged my gratitudes, so here we go, again!
1. sunny days
2. snuggly kitties
3. catering leftovers - like Humboldt Fog cheese!
4. yoga
5. the start of something new
Moving and a Shaking
I did start reading Maria Nemeth's Mastering Life's Energies on Thursday morning. And even though I'm still in Chapter 1, I am reading fully. I've also made some big changes and will continue to do so until I'm satisfied.
I let go of my personal assistant job, gave notice on my poorly attended 6AM yoga classes and let go my after school drama class residency starting in January.
Yeah, big changes.
I am removing things that do not serve me and making room for finding what I'm meant and WANT to do.
Angela is reworking my Namaste Gourmet website to reflect my expanded business and I really think that's my path right now. I just need a business plan and an avenue to find clients.
In fact, I am using the book to guide my yoga classes this week. Hopefully that will give me the reinforcement I need.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Biding my Time
I skimmed a great article in LearnVest yesterday about time.
I skimmed. I did not read.
Reading comprehension has never been my strongest suit. I am a creative individual, but did better on my math SATs - which surprises many. Perhaps it's the smaller problems - but that's not the point.
The point is that I skim. I don't jump in wholeheartedly, I float on the surface.
And I want to know why I don't feel settled and my Muladhara is under-active?
I have been reading half-heartedly a book recommended to guide my Life Coach practice, but the truth is that I probably need one myself. A motivator for the motivator?
Tomorrow I will rise early, take a yoga class and start at the beginning of the book. Re-reading, if necessary and taking action.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Laying Low
I said I was going to start to get going and well, I haven't.
I have been teaching yoga and my after school drama class. And while I gave notice with my personal assistant client, I have been doing a bit of work there, too.
And heck, it's only Tuesday.
I have also been catching up on The Walking Dead and playing Bejeweled Blitz and Words with Friends as if the world as we know it was ending and the place was being overrun by zombies.
But it isn't.
The biggest thing is I have to get well. Now that I am reunited with my neti pot and my body clock is restored allowing me to sleep - I do feel better.
I did start my Unlimited Monthly pass at Barefoot Yoga down the street and have the rest of the week full of catering excitement. My aim is to take a yoga class each day, but we'll see how I do.
I do need to focus, but I think this week that means keeping my white shirts clean and lifting from my legs.
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Because Daily Challenge Told Me To
As if gratitudes were not already a part of my daily routine, Daily Challenge asked that we announce 3 things that we are grateful for.
I'll give you 5.
1. great food
2. being with my family
3. my nephew
4. public transportation
5. yoga
Today I met with my old friend Blair. And after breakfast in downtown Manhattan we took a walk on the lower west side and then grabbed a good yoga class. I have not been very physical since I've been in NY and it was great to connect with my body and my breath. I need to take more yoga classes and I will certainly activate my monthly pass with Barefoot Yoga on Monday when I get back to town.
Now to get rid of my sore throat for some ease in my traveling and all will be well.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Lack of Gratitude
For someone that counts her blessing many days - I had a hard time posting my gratitudes on Facebook yesterday. I saw the long lists of what people where thankful for and I just could not say the same. I don't have a great job, a great love, I do not feel settled in my life and I certainly do not have a strong support system.
But when we went around the table last night at Allison and Scott's house, I could certainly say that it was great being back with my family.
And even though I got "stuck" playing with the small children, I ate good food, drank good wine and had a laugh or two. I have a roof over my head, food when I need it, money trickling in and people who do care about me.
I do sense change a-coming. And it may be in two weeks or 2 months but it will come. I just think I need to figure out what will give me the most happiness and the biggest amount of gratitude and just do it.
But when we went around the table last night at Allison and Scott's house, I could certainly say that it was great being back with my family.
And even though I got "stuck" playing with the small children, I ate good food, drank good wine and had a laugh or two. I have a roof over my head, food when I need it, money trickling in and people who do care about me.
I do sense change a-coming. And it may be in two weeks or 2 months but it will come. I just think I need to figure out what will give me the most happiness and the biggest amount of gratitude and just do it.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
New York State of Mind
My internet connection is spotty at my folks house, so it's not until late in the evening when I can get a strong enough WIFI connection from one of the neighbors. My parents have WIFI, but they don't know the password or their server name and I certainly cannot figure it out.
It's nice being in NY but I do miss my routine and my little furry nubbins.
But there are things I am grateful for:
1. seeing an old friend and catching up
2. a good job interview
3. beautiful weather
4. good food with the family
5. podcasts
Too tired for much else, as I am also nursing a cold and a cough. Hope to write soon.
It's nice being in NY but I do miss my routine and my little furry nubbins.
But there are things I am grateful for:
1. seeing an old friend and catching up
2. a good job interview
3. beautiful weather
4. good food with the family
5. podcasts
Too tired for much else, as I am also nursing a cold and a cough. Hope to write soon.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Thursday night Gratitudes
Here are some other things for which I am grateful:
1. Bakesale Betty's chicken sandwich eaten outside in the sunshine
2. a great visit with my good buddy Tony Shayne
3. ticking items off my to-do list
4. an almost empty kitchen sink
5. continued job opportunities
Monday, November 7, 2011
My Vishuddha feels threatened by Svadisthana.
One of my students last week was curious about the chakras. She said something about the masculine and feminine sides of certain centers and that was completely new to me. I adore the chakras. It allows us to think of something so spiritual in a very physical way. And even though that student didn't come to class as we played with the first 3 chakras - muladhara, svadhisthana and manipura, it was well needed by those that did show.
I tend to get bored with my teaching practice, so I change it up lots. I noticed a few weeks ago that Yoga Today did a podcast on chakras so I downloaded it yesterday and practiced a bit in my tiny kitchen. The kundalini component of the class got me all light headed. So in class today, I gave the option with some poses to go slower with ujayii breath rather than full steam with the Kundalini breath of fire.
But after class one of my regular students said that her throat bothered her. Gosh, we worked with the root, sacral center and solar plexus. We didn't get close to the upper body. But I realized that during the practice, my voice was weak. It cracked in places and I lacked air when speaking. Both my student and I were probably dealing with similar things.
I took one of those online tests around the chakras. And here are the crazy results:
So, as we spent so much time working on our root and sacral, my throat - or center for communication - felt threatened. I do find that I either talk lots or not at all. I have not found that happy medium. But either way, I did feel a huge opening in my first 2 centers. When I mentioned my theory to my student, it felt like it hit home.
I have been very aware of my breathing and internal energy today and I need to continue to do so. There's a lot of great movement - and I believe very necessary movement.
I am going to shut up and let it take it's course.
I tend to get bored with my teaching practice, so I change it up lots. I noticed a few weeks ago that Yoga Today did a podcast on chakras so I downloaded it yesterday and practiced a bit in my tiny kitchen. The kundalini component of the class got me all light headed. So in class today, I gave the option with some poses to go slower with ujayii breath rather than full steam with the Kundalini breath of fire.
But after class one of my regular students said that her throat bothered her. Gosh, we worked with the root, sacral center and solar plexus. We didn't get close to the upper body. But I realized that during the practice, my voice was weak. It cracked in places and I lacked air when speaking. Both my student and I were probably dealing with similar things.
I took one of those online tests around the chakras. And here are the crazy results:
|
So, as we spent so much time working on our root and sacral, my throat - or center for communication - felt threatened. I do find that I either talk lots or not at all. I have not found that happy medium. But either way, I did feel a huge opening in my first 2 centers. When I mentioned my theory to my student, it felt like it hit home.
I have been very aware of my breathing and internal energy today and I need to continue to do so. There's a lot of great movement - and I believe very necessary movement.
I am going to shut up and let it take it's course.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Saturday evening chill
A long day of catering and I sit in bed listening to the rain - and the pull from the kitchen blinds hitting my water bottle. That will drive me crazy.
Better.
So my week of eating healthy was marginally successful. While I didn't make my yummy chicken and veggie stew until yesterday (and only ate a cup of it) I didn't eat sweets all week. I did find it rather easy to abstain. I don't necessarily feel better, so in order to do that I think I need to change my diet in a more significant way and do a bit more exercise.
And yes, I still need to start meditating on a more regular basis.
But how 'bout some gratitudes
1. big tippers
2. a good job interview with a request for a second
3. time to do laundry - and remembering to buy quarters
4. catering leftovers
5. living in a beautiful part of the country
Better.
So my week of eating healthy was marginally successful. While I didn't make my yummy chicken and veggie stew until yesterday (and only ate a cup of it) I didn't eat sweets all week. I did find it rather easy to abstain. I don't necessarily feel better, so in order to do that I think I need to change my diet in a more significant way and do a bit more exercise.
And yes, I still need to start meditating on a more regular basis.
But how 'bout some gratitudes
1. big tippers
2. a good job interview with a request for a second
3. time to do laundry - and remembering to buy quarters
4. catering leftovers
5. living in a beautiful part of the country
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Weekly food challenge - Monday
So I have not been feeling so hot lately. Lots of processed foods and sugar have made me more tired and just generally yucky. So, I decided to start watching what I eat today. Yesterday I worked a catering gig for the restaurant I used to work. I figured that I'd just pig out on sliders, tots and s'mores bars. However the free event attracted more people than expected and we got nothing to nibble on.
I did have dessert - a shake and a few bites of butterscotch parfait - at the restaurant when we stopped by at the end of the evening to return extra ingredients and supplies. But it was enough.
So today I did 2 catering deliveries and taught 2 yoga classes. And here's what I ate:
MONDAY
coffee with skim milk
1 corn tortilla with leftover turkey bolognese topped with an egg (a little butter, no cheese)
3/4 cup veggie stew (with beans and potatoes)
a mini veggie sandwich
spinach salad with avocado, jicama, radishes and oranges - with a homemade ginger vinaigrette
8 pieces of California roll with brown rice
And I am still hungry, so think I'll have some almonds and 1/2 banana
Here's to feeling better!
I did have dessert - a shake and a few bites of butterscotch parfait - at the restaurant when we stopped by at the end of the evening to return extra ingredients and supplies. But it was enough.
So today I did 2 catering deliveries and taught 2 yoga classes. And here's what I ate:
MONDAY
coffee with skim milk
1 corn tortilla with leftover turkey bolognese topped with an egg (a little butter, no cheese)
3/4 cup veggie stew (with beans and potatoes)
a mini veggie sandwich
spinach salad with avocado, jicama, radishes and oranges - with a homemade ginger vinaigrette
8 pieces of California roll with brown rice
And I am still hungry, so think I'll have some almonds and 1/2 banana
Here's to feeling better!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Weight Lifted!
So yesterday I marched my bum to the court to drop off my last 2 time sheets for the community service hours I've worked to pay off the 2 traffic tickets I got in February. A huge weight was lifted from me. On top of that I cleaned my apartment, had friends over for dinner and wrote a new quote on my bathroom mirror.
If you refuse to accept anything but the best, you very often get it. - Somerset Maughn
Yesterday, I also subbed a great yoga class where 2 of 4 people took business cards and 1 signed my mailing list. I negotiated salary for work with a new catering company and after sending what feels like a bajillion job applications into the ether, today I got a request for an interview.
Funny how timing and karma work, non?
If you refuse to accept anything but the best, you very often get it. - Somerset Maughn
Yesterday, I also subbed a great yoga class where 2 of 4 people took business cards and 1 signed my mailing list. I negotiated salary for work with a new catering company and after sending what feels like a bajillion job applications into the ether, today I got a request for an interview.
Funny how timing and karma work, non?
Monday, October 24, 2011
This week in Yoga
However today I taught a class based on what I learned over the weekend. To regard the journey more than the destination and to focus on balance.
Since I cannot foresee living on the West Coast forever, I want to make sure that I see all the sites in CA that are worth seeing. So when I saw a backpacking and camping trip to Big Sur on one of the discount websites I jumped. It took me almost a full year to use it, but I went with a group of strangers camping overnight. I really do enjoy camping and would love to do it more.
But back to my lesson.
As we began our 3 mile hike in, our guide Chris said that we will go at a slow pace. For him it was more important for us to see the surroundings than to get to our campsite. Because really, there was little to do once we got there. But his instruction forced me not to race. To take my time with my steps to find balance and footing. There were a number of felled trees that we either had to climb over or duck under. This may not have been difficult, but when you add a 20 pound pack, your center gets all wonky and balance is more difficult. I did try and "stop and smell the roses" occasionally, but it was a balance between staying with the others and not falling on my ass. I'm sure that can be applied to life - but I decided to bring it into yoga today. Making sure we slowed down and were aware of how we flowed from pose to pose. Since standing balances in my classes are difficult - or at least I find the tension and frustration levels high when we do standing balances, I found a sequence online that we followed for the most part. My goal is to be able to flow this on Friday
Utkattasana (Chair)
Garudasana (Eagle)
Vrksana (Tree)
Natarajasana (King Dancer)
Virabridrasana III (Warrior 3)
Arda Chandrasana (Half Moon)
I found when we got to King Dancer that my standing leg was tired so I decided to take a break. We got to Half Moon through Warrior 2, Triangle and then Half Moon and passed on Warrior 3. We rarely do arm balances, so after Headstand, we did Bekasana and then ended with Plow and Shoulderstand.
When we got the end of the class, I felt more satisfied. While I am proud that I can teach a class based on instinct without prep, I find the practice is deeper when I have some structure. We will continue playing with the journey and balance the rest of the week. I am curious to know the destination we will reach at the end.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Atonement
I'm sure I've done lots of shit wrong this year - I mean, just remember my car karma cluster &^#$ from February that I am still dealing with since my car insurance premium jumped over 100%. I'm sure I've offended people and just done plain wrong. I do try my hardest to be present, aware and nurturing to those around me. But sometimes I fail. We all do.
As we reach another Yom Kippur, I have tried to stay quiet. But as my life is full of literal and mental clutter, I am taking the rest of the day to clean. I do have to work a little tomorrow, but I will be fasting. As the hunger pangs hit tomorrow late morning, I will continue to reflect on this life and making the most of it. Of giving wholeheartedly, but not so much that I feel I'm being used. Of choosing what I want and not only sending it out to the universe but actually making it happen.
If I have done you wrong, please let me know. Or if it works for you, I am so sorry for any misdeeds, misspeaking or mistakes that have hurt you in any way. Please accept this apology.
Have a safe and easy fast.
As we reach another Yom Kippur, I have tried to stay quiet. But as my life is full of literal and mental clutter, I am taking the rest of the day to clean. I do have to work a little tomorrow, but I will be fasting. As the hunger pangs hit tomorrow late morning, I will continue to reflect on this life and making the most of it. Of giving wholeheartedly, but not so much that I feel I'm being used. Of choosing what I want and not only sending it out to the universe but actually making it happen.
If I have done you wrong, please let me know. Or if it works for you, I am so sorry for any misdeeds, misspeaking or mistakes that have hurt you in any way. Please accept this apology.
Have a safe and easy fast.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Tons of updates!
Gosh, I had a good performance at The Marsh on the 19th, had an identity crisis and officiated a wedding in Atlanta, had a great audition at Berkeley Rep and the sun is shining!
Okay, not now - because it's 11:30 at night, but in general blue skies, baby!
I am not sure why I have not shared. Perhaps I just have not had time to process quite yet.
I also have not had a chance to count my blessings and list some gratitudes. Here we go!
1. people to watch the kitties while I'm away
2. my love of physical theatre and my ability to perform it
3. steady catering work
4. finding Weeds Season 7 on the internet
5. my volunteer experience with the American Cancer Society
Okay, not now - because it's 11:30 at night, but in general blue skies, baby!
I am not sure why I have not shared. Perhaps I just have not had time to process quite yet.
I also have not had a chance to count my blessings and list some gratitudes. Here we go!
1. people to watch the kitties while I'm away
2. my love of physical theatre and my ability to perform it
3. steady catering work
4. finding Weeds Season 7 on the internet
5. my volunteer experience with the American Cancer Society
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