7/25/2022 0 Comments Side Plank Prep Vinyasa
“That’s exactly how it is in yoga. The places where you have the most resistance are actually the places that are going to be the areas of the greatest liberation.” —Rodney Yee
What poses do you love to hate? Or hate to love? Or just hate altogether? We all have them, those poses that end up being the bane of our practice. The ones we secretly groan about when your teachers cue them in. For me, it's plié. I can't stand holding plié, and my two main teachers were dancers. They can hold it all day long, talk, chat, have philosophical conversations while I'm just over here dying. What is yours? Hit reply and let me know! For many of my students at the YMCA, one of those frustrating poses is side plank. And that's my fault. I don't teach it a lot. So for the past 2 months we've been focusing heavily on building the strength required to feel confident in this challenging pose. This class is the first in a series that I'm creating that will help you build up that same strength and confidence. Modify if you want to, pause the video if you need to, and repeat this practice weekly while you work on your core, arm, and hip strength. And, most importantly, find joy in the process. ✨ Leave me a "I love and hate side plank!" on YouTube so that I know you're a part of this community! ---------------------- One last thing before you go! I am opening up my calendar for 4 new 1:1 clients this summer. This can be either in person if you live close by, or via zoom if you don't. What you get: 1 hour of fully personalized instruction wherein we work together to achieve your goals. Our meetings will be 1, 2, or 3 times per week for 3 months, depending upon your goals. This time frame is so that we have the opportunity to see the transformation that only occurs with dedication and perseverance. (Change does not happen overnight. 3 months is the minimum amount of time to begin to see changes in your body.) Result: A stronger body, a more positive mindset, and a committed yoga practice; all of which lead to more energy, more joy, more confidence, better balance, better health, and better sleep. If you're ready to say yes to a better body and a happier life, click HERE! ❤️ Dylan
0 Comments
7/11/2022 0 Comments Vinyasa for Strong Hammies
“Samadosha, samagnischa samadhatumala kriyaha |
prasanna atmenindriya manaha swasthya ityabhidheeyate ||” -Sushruta Samhita What is health to you? Is it the absence of disease? Is it a certain amount of energy? Is it regular bowels and lack of pain? Is it being able to do a certain number of pushups? Is it restful sleep? What does being healthy mean to you? According to Ayurveda, being healthy is so much more than just feeling good and being free from disease. It is defined as... "One who is established in Self, who has balanced doshas (primary life force), balanced agni (fire of digestion), properly formed dhatus (tissues), proper elimination of malas (waste products), well-functioning bodily processes, and whose mind, soul and senses are full of bliss is called a healthy person." Do you feel like your health encompasses that definition? It's a lot, isn't it? To find that kind of all encompassing balance in the system. It's something that takes a lot of work, changing of habits, and awareness of the larger picture. But it's also innately simple. How to become, or remain, healthy is not something that is accessible only to the wealthy. It's available to you as well, if you have a mind to pursue it. And, honestly, it starts with awareness. Awareness of yourself in and out of balance. Mentally and physically. So, in today's free class, we work on an oft underused but oh so important muscle group: the hamstrings. This is a set of muscles that run down the backs of the legs from the pelvis to the shin, and are used for hip extension and knee flexion. Many people mistakenly believe they are tight, and wish to stretch them more, rather than strengthening them! But that's where you may be wrong. We need to build a balance of strength and stretch for these muscles in order to support the lower back and take some of the work out of the quads (front of the thigh). Just like we need to build balance in all aspects of our lives. But, you know, we have to start somewhere. Practice awareness during this class. Notice how you feel in these postures. Notice where you feel in balance, and where you don't. And, most importantly, enjoy! Sat Nam, Dylan 6/27/2022 0 Comments Balancing Core Interval Yoga
“i stopped resisting the unpleasant feelings and accepted that happiness has nothing to do with feeling good all the time -balance” ― Rupi Kaur
This is a thoughtful and potentially upsetting post, so if you're not into that, HERE is your new class (40 min core balancing) and HERE is your July Calendar (Sweat) --- I don't know about you, but I feel heavy these days. Heavy with fatigue. Heavy with frustration. Heavy with anger. Heavy with disappointment. Heavy with grief. As an American woman, it is mind boggling to watch the direction of politics in this country, trying to wrap your mind around things that don't make any sense. But knowing, too, that the other side may feel the same way: confused how we could not see it like them! There is no we and no them though, in my world. I try not to allow that belief to rise up like a barrier in my thoughts, at any rate. There is only the sum total of our experiences, which paint a vastly different world for each person living it. This is what yoga has taught me; what yoga continues to teach me, and perhaps you as well. That we are all looking through the eyes of our perspectives, generally oblivious to the fact that the person next to you may be having a completely different experience. And that, if we can step back for just a second from our thoughts, that there is another, worthy, human in front of you, living their experience as best they can. It's a simple shift in perspective, but it can make a lot of difference when emotions run high. Yoga has taught me patience; a tempering of the anger that sparks like a match when indignity lands. And yoga has taught me balance; how to find a way back to center when things are unsteady. Now, don't get me wrong, {{ subscriber.first_name }}. I would be lying through my teeth if I told you that I am the epitome of zen and compassionate living. I am not. At least not in the thick of things. But I'm sharing this in the hopes that it will make you pause to reflect when emotions run high. But also, to remember the practice of yoga when you're not on your mat. How can you use the tools of awareness and resilience, but also kindness and grace, when you leave the safe and predictable rectangle of the yoga mat? I don't have an answer for you. I can only share my experience, and listen to yours if you wish to voice it. I can also offer you my shoulder and support if you find yourself affected by the politics of the day. I hope that one day these letters will move back to more lighthearted topics, but I can't be anything other than honest with you and share how I feel, here, with you, my friend. There are two gifts for you in this email, though. Our free class, a 40 minute slow flow type class focused on core strength and balance. And our July Calendar. A bit early but ready to go and be scheduled into your life! The theme is Sweat, and I pray the movement helps you release any frustrations you carry. Come back often to your yoga practice, learn from it, live it, and know that it, and I, support you and your choices. Sat Nam ❤️ Dylan 6/13/2022 0 Comments Yoga Fusion for the Upper Body
”Be where you are, not where you think you should be.”- Anonymous
I wish that I could say that yoga was the perfect fitness modality. But unfortunately, it is not. There are no perfect fitness modalities. Each one has it's strengths and weaknesses, just like our body has strength and weaknesses. It's the nature of reality. And yoga, having not been designed as a fitness modality at all, has its fair share of weaknesses in that realm. Which is why I've changed it, fused it with other things, with the hope of creating a well rounded workout routine for you. A routine that gives you strength, flexibility, and the relaxation you dearly deserve. All fit into your busy time frame. Because we all know that we have way too much going on and not enough time to do the things we want amirite? One of the weaknesses of yoga is that there are limited "pulling" movements that work the back body. In fact, I'd say there aren't any at all. Because of this, there tends to be an over strengthening in the front body, that is exasperated by the "sit at the computer forever" lifestyle that is prevalent in today's society. To counter that, I recommend adding in classes like today's free workout into your weekly schedule. In today's class we work the lower back, which will support the strength in the core and help alleviate back pain. We work the upper back, to draw the shoulders into correct alignment and to support the posture. We work the arms, because we could all use a bit of tightening and toning there eh? And we work the core, to bring it all together. I hope that these classes bring you strength, patience, and love. We could all use a little bit more of that in our lives. One last thing before you go! I am opening up my calendar for 4 new 1:1 clients this summer. This can be either in person if you live close by, or via zoom if you don't. What you get: 1 hour of fully personalized instruction wherein we work together to achieve your goals. Our meetings will be 1, 2, or 3 times per week for 3 months, depending upon your goals. This time frame is so that we have the opportunity to see the transformation that only occurs with dedication and perseverance. Outcome: A stronger body, a more positive mindset, and a committed yoga practice; all of which lead to more energy, more joy, more confidence, better balance, better health, and better sleep. If you're ready to say yes to a better body and a happier life, click HERE! ❤️ Dylan
”Yoga exists in the world because everything is linked.”
–Desikashar I didn't know, when I put the poll on Instagram about what our June Calendar should be called, that we would actually be called to be so STRONG at this time. What else do you call it BUT Strength, getting up each and every day, knowing that somewhere in the world something terrible is happening. We are so intimately connected, yet so drastically removed, from what is happening in Ukraine, in the DRC, in Ethiopia, in the USA. And there's still a pandemic happening... And it begins to wear on ya. I think we're all tired, aren't we? But it's just when we're most tired that we need the most strength. So, it worked out perfectly then, that STRONG was the theme chosen for our June Calendar. Each class was chosen because it will build your strength in some way, whether that be physical or mental. And now, we may need that strength, to stand by our convictions. We may be called to do something: to march, to donate, to vote, to volunteer. We may be more called to hold our children tightly, change the way we look at education, or even, dare I say it, change our beliefs about one thing or another. Really, whatever you do, as long as you do it with love in your heart, that's all that matters to me. So come to your mat, practice today's new free class to find that center that is you at your very best, and schedule the new set of classes into your planner. You know I'm always here if you have questions, need a class recommendation, or just want to chat. Sat Nam ❤️ Dylan
“Everything can be achieved through gradual steps – one small step at a time: overcoming fears, fulfilling dreams... anything you wish to be different from the way it is.”
― A.J. Darkholme Did you know that your body holds all of the emotions you've ever felt? Especially those reoccurring ones, the ones that you just kind of live immersed in. You may not even notice that you do live stuck in certain emotions, you've been on autopilot in them for so long. Emotions like frustration, anger, sadness; these are the ones that get stuck in our bodies the most, because they don't move. We don't tend to accept them and move on, meaning that they don't get released. And if they don't get released, they have to go somewhere. So they live in your body, in your fascia primarily. That's one thing yoga is exceptionally good at: moving energy so that it gets released out of the body. As such, it allows you to heal, physically, which will then pave the path for you to heal mentally as well. That's what today's class is all about. Yes, of course, we strengthen. What kind of Yoga Infusion class would this be if we didn't? But we also twist, and after we twist, we release. And the release is all the more potent for the strength it took to get there. On top of that, we work with the hips. These babies are notorious for being a hotbed of stored emotion, so remember to be gentle with yourself. What is released needs to be let go. Let it. Create space for new, for joy, for bliss. Speaking of which, one spot left in our Flow into Bliss Retreat! We are four months out. This is the only retreat I'll be holding in 2022, so if you'd love to practice with me in person this year, in a European paradise, now is the time! Sign up HERE! ❤️ Dylan PS: Comment "I RELEASE AND LET GO" on the YouTube video so I know you're part of this community!
“I am not fully healed, I am not fully wise, I am still on my way. What matters is that I am moving forward.”
-Yung Pueblo It's a new month, a new class, and the season for renewal. By popular request our calendar this month is "Cleanse" because we could all use a good wring out. That's what a cleanse does for us right? Through it, we get rid of all of the gunk. Whether that be stagnant energy, toxic food, people, or habits, or just the grime off the body. We cleanse so that we can start fresh. Wide eyes and bushy tailed, as it were. So, I have for you today both a new calendar, and our brand new class, of which there will be three this month! And today's class is my favorite kind of class: the coffee cup kind. Not only that, but it's a twisty coffee cup, designed to stimulate the organs, flush out the systems, and tighten up the obliques. Do you like twisty classes as much as I do? Comment below and let me know! Enjoy! Sat Nam ❤️ Dylan 4/18/2022 0 Comments Dancer Vinyasa Flow
“Blooming and withering both are inevitable. Let's stay graceful in the process.”
― Nitya Prakash Recently a private client mentioned, at the end of her first class back with me after surgery, "it's a talent...gentle, yet aggressive." It had me cracking up because that is exactly what I strive to bring to these classes. Whether you join me in person or through YouTube, at the end of the day we are not here to get a gentle stretch and head off to bed. No, Yoga Infusion is all about the FUSION of strength and ease. The marriage of Sthira and Sukha - Strength and Ease. It's literally written in the yogic texts. And it's what you'll find when you roll out your mat with me for today's free YouTube class. It's graceful, or can be if your body feels like being graceful today (and no worries if it's not). It's fun. And it's going to make your abs sore. And BONUS! If you're a runner, this class includes some lovely IT band stretches, since I know you don't stretch enough after you've run! (I'm watching you) Runner or not, save this amazing, gentle yet aggressive fluid flow and practice often! I'll see you there! ❤️ Dylan PS: Comment "I'M FEELING GRACEFUL" on the video so I know that you're a part of our community! 4/4/2022 0 Comments Criss Cross Core
“How one walks through the world, the endless small adjustments of balance, is affected by the shifting weights of beautiful things.” ― Elaine Scarry
Little bit of story time today, I've been having a tough time as of late. For a variety of reasons, and I'm sure it shows to be honest. The other day, though, I was trying to create good energy. Saged the whole house, put on mantra music and incense, did some breathwork. All the yogic things. And, by happenstance, one of my current favorite musicians posted that their new music video had come out. So, of course, I watched it. And spent the next several hours listening to the album on repeat. Was it uplifting yoga music? No, not in any way, shape, or form. It was Machine Gun Kelly, our new fav punk rock artist. And I spent the day happy as a clam. (Why do we say that?) Sometimes you can do all the "right" things, and still not end up where you want to be. And when that's the case, scrap the book, and try to do what feels best. It's in that state of ease that bliss can occur. Whether that ease comes from catchy punk pop anthems or sacred sound baths. There's a place for both. It's never either/or. And with that, my friend, enjoy this yoga class for core and brain power. It's fun, it's quick, it was filmed at Christmas, and it works not only your body but also your brain, both of which are important for this ease we're searching for. Sat nam, Dylan 3/21/2022 0 Comments Busy Day Fluid Flow
“Be you, love you. All ways, always.” ― Alexandra Elle
I just have a short message for you today. It's a simple reminder that I could use, so maybe you need it, too. You are enough, just as you are. And you are allowed to do things for your own happiness. You are allowed to take that trip (Croatia has got your name on it!) You are allowed to invest in your health. You are allowed to take time out of your day to move your body. And yes, you are allowed to ask for help. I say these things, but I know how hard it can be to give ourselves permission. We feel guilty, selfish, and maybe even ashamed. But it's all a story we keep telling ourselves. And maybe, just maybe, repeating it again and again will help all of us rewrite that store. So, I hope you take some time to yourself today. Move your body with this free class. Ask your partner for help with the house chores. Get a massage. Sit in a bath. Take a mental health day. You deserve it, and you're allowed to have it (and enjoy it!) ❤️ Sat Nam Dylan |
Archives
December 2023
Categories |
|