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varanasi india • © harriet leibowitz 2006
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Conscious Evolution
Conscious Evolution
How can one be totally present and accepting and still strive to be a better person or work on self-improvement? I get this type of question fairly often from students, especially when we are reading some seemingly esoteric text directly and indirectly stating that enlightenment requires complete acceptance of the moment. How can we have a "goal" of reaching higher consciousness while accepting that we're not "there" yet. If we are content to just be, why would we strive for more? Of course, the easy answer is that full acceptance is itself an "end point" of sorts...but such solipsism doesn't usually get me very far in a discussion.
The more difficult answer, and the way that I try to live my life (with varying degrees of success), has to do with what I refer to as placement. Who we think we are and how we define our experience is often relative to culturally dictated data sets that we collect about ourselves, like our weight, our bank balance, job title, status, etc. We use this data stream to compare and contrast our current position with where we have been. Life is "good" as long as we see a positive trend and tends to make us anxious when we notice negative growth. The placement part of this is related to identifying our position, placing our ego, relative to stuff that is in flux, like our bank account, our waist line or our partner, rather than something infinite like universal compassion, pure awareness or non-violence. When we stop tying our sense of self so strongly to culturally predictable normative standards and begin instead to shape our identity around unbounded ideas like pure awareness, our position shifts from the fluctuation of outcome to one anchored in possibility.
For me personally this translates into being a highly motivated, goal oriented, overachiever without loosing sight of what’s really important. In fact, I try to regularly evaluate where I am and reset my intentions to move me toward greater abundance but my sense of who I am or what makes John a “good” person has little to do with external factors. I continually orient myself towards trying without being attached to the outcome. I can continue to strive for greater abundance and new experience, without feeling limited by the results of my endeavors, because I have set my internal awareness towards a concept that is greater than my own limited existence. Working this way offers one the benefit of being proactive without the drawback of self-definition based on accomplishments alone. On a day to day level, I have goals and the pendulum of success swings back and forth but in terms of my life work, my experience transcends these temporary fluctuations.
A mind set like this can take a little getting used to and requires consistent practice in letting go of the linear methodology employed by our woonky culture. Its like arguing gravity is relative. Of course, on earth, gravity isn’t relative but how we frame our relationship to its force in our life is relative. Without gravity we wouldn’t have a down or an up and our placement in space would depend on “choice” rather than assumption (Think The Matrix). For me, regular meditation and LOTS of asana work helps wash away some of life’s inherent habituation, keeping me clear and focused on the big picture...god.
Sadly I have noticed over the last few years that this great practice we call YOGA is itself becoming mired in limited constructs of money, power, fame and status. Instead of practices providing students with a place to land and evolve after hyper scheduled days, I see more and more teachers emphasizing outcome as they take their students through endlessly rehearsed scripts. The result is a strict and mundane kind of experience where students believe yoga = legs behind the head, rather than yoga = liberation from self-limitation. So look for more creativity and less...status quo...from onlYoga in the coming months as the studio continues to evolve consciously.
Namaste,
John Merideth - Director onlYoga
How can one be totally present and accepting and still strive to be a better person or work on self-improvement? I get this type of question fairly often from students, especially when we are reading some seemingly esoteric text directly and indirectly stating that enlightenment requires complete acceptance of the moment. How can we have a "goal" of reaching higher consciousness while accepting that we're not "there" yet. If we are content to just be, why would we strive for more? Of course, the easy answer is that full acceptance is itself an "end point" of sorts...but such solipsism doesn't usually get me very far in a discussion.
The more difficult answer, and the way that I try to live my life (with varying degrees of success), has to do with what I refer to as placement. Who we think we are and how we define our experience is often relative to culturally dictated data sets that we collect about ourselves, like our weight, our bank balance, job title, status, etc. We use this data stream to compare and contrast our current position with where we have been. Life is "good" as long as we see a positive trend and tends to make us anxious when we notice negative growth. The placement part of this is related to identifying our position, placing our ego, relative to stuff that is in flux, like our bank account, our waist line or our partner, rather than something infinite like universal compassion, pure awareness or non-violence. When we stop tying our sense of self so strongly to culturally predictable normative standards and begin instead to shape our identity around unbounded ideas like pure awareness, our position shifts from the fluctuation of outcome to one anchored in possibility.
For me personally this translates into being a highly motivated, goal oriented, overachiever without loosing sight of what’s really important. In fact, I try to regularly evaluate where I am and reset my intentions to move me toward greater abundance but my sense of who I am or what makes John a “good” person has little to do with external factors. I continually orient myself towards trying without being attached to the outcome. I can continue to strive for greater abundance and new experience, without feeling limited by the results of my endeavors, because I have set my internal awareness towards a concept that is greater than my own limited existence. Working this way offers one the benefit of being proactive without the drawback of self-definition based on accomplishments alone. On a day to day level, I have goals and the pendulum of success swings back and forth but in terms of my life work, my experience transcends these temporary fluctuations.
A mind set like this can take a little getting used to and requires consistent practice in letting go of the linear methodology employed by our woonky culture. Its like arguing gravity is relative. Of course, on earth, gravity isn’t relative but how we frame our relationship to its force in our life is relative. Without gravity we wouldn’t have a down or an up and our placement in space would depend on “choice” rather than assumption (Think The Matrix). For me, regular meditation and LOTS of asana work helps wash away some of life’s inherent habituation, keeping me clear and focused on the big picture...god.
Sadly I have noticed over the last few years that this great practice we call YOGA is itself becoming mired in limited constructs of money, power, fame and status. Instead of practices providing students with a place to land and evolve after hyper scheduled days, I see more and more teachers emphasizing outcome as they take their students through endlessly rehearsed scripts. The result is a strict and mundane kind of experience where students believe yoga = legs behind the head, rather than yoga = liberation from self-limitation. So look for more creativity and less...status quo...from onlYoga in the coming months as the studio continues to evolve consciously.
Namaste,
John Merideth - Director onlYoga
New Class - Mokshananda Yoga!
onlYoga Summer Schedule
Class Descriptions
Yoga Basics & Introduction To The Ashtanga
Primary Series •
Suitable for
all levels, these foundation classes offer new
students a thorough and safe introduction to
learning the Ashtanga Vinyasa method. New students
will build the strength and confidence necessary to
move into more advanced classes in the studio. For
more experienced practitioners, the course provides
a tool for reviewing and strengthening the
fundamental concepts that make the Ashtanga form so
dynamic. Postures are held in an effort to build
strength, develop muscle memory and generate proper
alignment. Invocation, Vinyasa and many standing
series postures are introduced. (new
students welcome!)
Mokshananda Yoga • Not just another rehearsed yoga class! The name Mokshananda is a combination of two sanskrit words: Moksha = liberation + Ananda = bliss (liberating bliss). A Mokshanada class is designed to directly tap into and liberate the bliss contained within each of us. Fusing powerful elements, such as the breath coordinated movements of vinyasa from Ashtanga yoga with the cleansing and clarifying mantras and kriyas from Kundalini yoga, Mokshananda Yoga offers the practitioner a unique and spiritually rich experience. We see these classes as a natural evolution and adaptation of different but complimentary styles of yoga. Never exactly the same, each class will contain a vigorous asana practice, texture rich original music, chanting/mantra, deep relaxation, meditation and much more. If you have taken an onlYoga class previously, you will probably feel right at home and recognize our uniquely creative blend of form and function. Part of what makes Mokshananda yoga powerful is having the ability to show up and remain open to the class as it unfolds. If you haven’t worked with us previously then you are in for a treat...what are you waiting for, join us for a class soon. (all welcome)
Ashtanga Foundation Series • Offered once each quarter. Suitable for all levels, these classes offer new students a thorough and safe introduction to learning the Ashtanga Vinyasa method while building the strength and confidence necessary to move into more advanced classes in the studio. For more experienced practitioners, the course provides a tool for reviewing and strengthening the fundamental concepts that make the Ashtanga form so dynamic. We recommend new students start at the beginning of the four week series, however, since this is an ongoing course students can drop in for any of the classes and make up the missed classes in the following cycle. Drop-ins are welcome. (new students welcome!)
Ashtanga Intermediate Primary Series • An intermediate Ashtanga yoga class that builds on the principles introduced in our Intro and foundation level classes. All standing postures are covered with the inclusion of some seated postures and a closing sequence. Emphasis remains on learning to move fluidly with the breath. Some knowledge of the Ashtanga yoga system is helpful but not required. Vinyasa (breath coordinated movement) will be emphasized as students investigate the primary series in greater detail. This class is tailored to begining and intermediate students but everyone is welcome!(new/intermediate)
Vinyasa Flow • In Sanskrit the word "Vinyasa" means breath coordinated movement. At onlYoga our vinyasa flow classes are built around the concept of moving fluidly with the breath from one asana to another. The contiguous and continuous motion creates an intense heat in the body, producing sweat and melting mental and physical resistance (you also burn tons of calories!). Vinyasa flow classes are also designed to push muscles toward greater endurance through long, deep sets of postures. Students of all levels should come prepared for an original class designed to challenge on a multitude of levels! All levels are welcome but students new to yoga should be aware that some previous experience with yoga will be helpful. (intermediate)
Ashtanga Primary Series • Yoga Chikitsa, yoga therapy, is the foundation of Ashtanga yoga. Each class moves quickly, covering all standing, seated and closing postures. By practicing the Ashtanga Yoga primary series in the traditional way, using the rhythm of the breath and the continuous flowing movements of vinyasa between poses, we integrate the body, mind and spirit into a full and complete experience. (intermediate/advanced)
onlYoga Hip Opening Series • An onlYoga original. These classes focus on building strength and flexibility in the low back and hips. Although a basic knowledge of yoga is helpful, it's not required. In each class a unique sequence of asanas are blended in an effort to reach toward the full expression of more intricate postures such as pigeon or eka pada sirsasana (one leg behind the head). All levels welcome. (all levels)
CORE Class • Get balanced and rid yourself of low back pain. The muscles of the abdomen are key to virtually every posture in yoga. onlYoga Core Classes focus on strengthening this important muscle group ...making for a more fluid practice. Time is also spent working on handstands. These classes are open to all levels. $10 (all levels)
Kundalini Yoga • This powerful and effective form of yoga, as taught by Yogi Bhajan, is a great way to recharge your mind and body. This yoga of awareness uses movement, sound current, breath and meditation to help you relax and let your spirit flow freely, moving you into a greater feeling of well-being. The 8 limbs of Ashtanga are included in the Kundalini Yoga practice and are all essential to steady progress in refining the mind and discriminating the real from the illusory. In Kundalini Yoga there is a constant balance designed to give the practitioner awareness in both the inner and outer worlds. The goal of yoga is to be consciously conscious so that your actions are wholehearted and balanced. (all levels)
onlYoga Hip/Chest Openings • If you've ever thought "I'm not flexible enough for yoga" or "I wish I were more flexible", this is a class for you. This all levels class will explore targeted postures for systematically opening resistant areas of the mind and body. Combinations of the shoulders, back, chest, hips and hamstrings will be covered in each class to promote greater flexibility and strength. The mind/body relationship to tightness or resistance will also be integrated into the experience. Be ready for a dynamic, fun practice. All levels welcome. (all levels)
Meditation • (peaceful abiding) is the most basic form of sitting meditation. By continually returning to the breath, we train the mind in stability, clarity and strength. All welcome. Donation only. (all levels)
Mokshananda Yoga • Not just another rehearsed yoga class! The name Mokshananda is a combination of two sanskrit words: Moksha = liberation + Ananda = bliss (liberating bliss). A Mokshanada class is designed to directly tap into and liberate the bliss contained within each of us. Fusing powerful elements, such as the breath coordinated movements of vinyasa from Ashtanga yoga with the cleansing and clarifying mantras and kriyas from Kundalini yoga, Mokshananda Yoga offers the practitioner a unique and spiritually rich experience. We see these classes as a natural evolution and adaptation of different but complimentary styles of yoga. Never exactly the same, each class will contain a vigorous asana practice, texture rich original music, chanting/mantra, deep relaxation, meditation and much more. If you have taken an onlYoga class previously, you will probably feel right at home and recognize our uniquely creative blend of form and function. Part of what makes Mokshananda yoga powerful is having the ability to show up and remain open to the class as it unfolds. If you haven’t worked with us previously then you are in for a treat...what are you waiting for, join us for a class soon. (all welcome)
Ashtanga Foundation Series • Offered once each quarter. Suitable for all levels, these classes offer new students a thorough and safe introduction to learning the Ashtanga Vinyasa method while building the strength and confidence necessary to move into more advanced classes in the studio. For more experienced practitioners, the course provides a tool for reviewing and strengthening the fundamental concepts that make the Ashtanga form so dynamic. We recommend new students start at the beginning of the four week series, however, since this is an ongoing course students can drop in for any of the classes and make up the missed classes in the following cycle. Drop-ins are welcome. (new students welcome!)
Ashtanga Intermediate Primary Series • An intermediate Ashtanga yoga class that builds on the principles introduced in our Intro and foundation level classes. All standing postures are covered with the inclusion of some seated postures and a closing sequence. Emphasis remains on learning to move fluidly with the breath. Some knowledge of the Ashtanga yoga system is helpful but not required. Vinyasa (breath coordinated movement) will be emphasized as students investigate the primary series in greater detail. This class is tailored to begining and intermediate students but everyone is welcome!(new/intermediate)
Vinyasa Flow • In Sanskrit the word "Vinyasa" means breath coordinated movement. At onlYoga our vinyasa flow classes are built around the concept of moving fluidly with the breath from one asana to another. The contiguous and continuous motion creates an intense heat in the body, producing sweat and melting mental and physical resistance (you also burn tons of calories!). Vinyasa flow classes are also designed to push muscles toward greater endurance through long, deep sets of postures. Students of all levels should come prepared for an original class designed to challenge on a multitude of levels! All levels are welcome but students new to yoga should be aware that some previous experience with yoga will be helpful. (intermediate)
Ashtanga Primary Series • Yoga Chikitsa, yoga therapy, is the foundation of Ashtanga yoga. Each class moves quickly, covering all standing, seated and closing postures. By practicing the Ashtanga Yoga primary series in the traditional way, using the rhythm of the breath and the continuous flowing movements of vinyasa between poses, we integrate the body, mind and spirit into a full and complete experience. (intermediate/advanced)
onlYoga Hip Opening Series • An onlYoga original. These classes focus on building strength and flexibility in the low back and hips. Although a basic knowledge of yoga is helpful, it's not required. In each class a unique sequence of asanas are blended in an effort to reach toward the full expression of more intricate postures such as pigeon or eka pada sirsasana (one leg behind the head). All levels welcome. (all levels)
CORE Class • Get balanced and rid yourself of low back pain. The muscles of the abdomen are key to virtually every posture in yoga. onlYoga Core Classes focus on strengthening this important muscle group ...making for a more fluid practice. Time is also spent working on handstands. These classes are open to all levels. $10 (all levels)
Kundalini Yoga • This powerful and effective form of yoga, as taught by Yogi Bhajan, is a great way to recharge your mind and body. This yoga of awareness uses movement, sound current, breath and meditation to help you relax and let your spirit flow freely, moving you into a greater feeling of well-being. The 8 limbs of Ashtanga are included in the Kundalini Yoga practice and are all essential to steady progress in refining the mind and discriminating the real from the illusory. In Kundalini Yoga there is a constant balance designed to give the practitioner awareness in both the inner and outer worlds. The goal of yoga is to be consciously conscious so that your actions are wholehearted and balanced. (all levels)
onlYoga Hip/Chest Openings • If you've ever thought "I'm not flexible enough for yoga" or "I wish I were more flexible", this is a class for you. This all levels class will explore targeted postures for systematically opening resistant areas of the mind and body. Combinations of the shoulders, back, chest, hips and hamstrings will be covered in each class to promote greater flexibility and strength. The mind/body relationship to tightness or resistance will also be integrated into the experience. Be ready for a dynamic, fun practice. All levels welcome. (all levels)
Meditation • (peaceful abiding) is the most basic form of sitting meditation. By continually returning to the breath, we train the mind in stability, clarity and strength. All welcome. Donation only. (all levels)
Love Song - Rilke
onlYoga Five Year Anniversary Party
Special Summer Events & Studio Activities
Maya Tulum 2006 - onlYoga Retreat - October 14 - 19, 2006
Yoga Sutra
Yoga Speak
a | asana - Pachimottanasana
Paschimottanasana
(Seated Forward Bend)
"intense West stretch"
(POSH-ee-moh-tan-AHS-anna)
Benefits
- Calms the brain and helps relieve stress and mild depression
- Stretches the spine, shoulders, hamstrings
- Improves digestion
- Helps relieve the symptoms of menopause and menstrual discomfort
- Soothes tension in the low back
- Traditional texts say that Paschimottanasana increases appetite, reduces obesity, and cures diseases.
- Sit on the floor with your hips and pelvis pressing down and back. extend your legs straight in front of you. Press actively through your heels. Rock slightly onto your left buttock, and pull your right sitting bone away from the heel with your right hand. Repeat on the other side. Internally rotate the thighs and press them down into the floor. As the thighs lengthen, press through your palms on the floor beside your hips and extend through the sternum toward the ceiling.
- As you inhale squeeze the belly and draw back into the pelvis. Keeping the front torso long, lean forward from the hip joints, not the waist. Tuck the tailbone away from the back of your pelvis. If possible catch the big toes with the first two fingers or grab the sides of the feet with your hands; if this isn't possible, loop a strap around the balls of he feet, and hold the strap firmly.
- Exhale, gently lengthen yourself into the forward bend, whether your hands are on the feet or holding the strap. Always lengthen the front torso into the pose, keeping your head neutral. If you are holding the feet, bend the elbows out to the sides and lift them away from the floor; if holding the strap, lighten your grip and walk the hands forward, keeping the arms long. The lower belly should touch the thighs first, then the upper belly, then the ribs, and the head last.
- With each inhalation, lift and lengthen the front torso just slightly; with each exhalation release a little more fully into the forward bend. In this way the torso oscillates and lengthens with the breath. Eventually you may be able to stretch the arms out and bind beyond the feet..
- Stay in the pose for 3 to 5 minutes. Taking long, slow, steady breaths. To release, inhale lengthening and lifting through the chin and chest. Then exhale and release the feet tucking the tailbone back toward the pelvis.
