tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55961015352433821572024-03-13T11:48:26.433-07:00Malaysian in MysoreThis is about my yoga journey. It began before I took my first yoga class. I had to go through surgery on my shoulder after an accident during a football (soccer) game. First thing in rehab was to regain range of motion. It was this desire to gain back flexibility that got me open to trying out yoga. The rest, I should say, is history.... but it is really only the beginning.M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-9808865388315241402011-09-19T02:45:00.000-07:002011-09-19T02:47:34.906-07:00My Teacher In MysoreHope you'll enjoy this video as much as I did. :)<br /><br /><iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/q127rsqcxUs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-71028111505319744802011-09-12T21:19:00.000-07:002011-09-12T21:54:12.761-07:00Final Week - Sept 13Onto my final week in Mysore. Good time to summarise my trips here. Coming here to learn at the very place where Guruji has taught and to learn from his daughter is really a blessing for me. I love the practice and I'm grateful for these opportunities. There is a simplicity and directness in the way it is taught that draws me to this place. Few words, and where u need help, it is always there. Even if u want to escape that help, the sharp eyes will notice and you'll be told to wait - for help will be coming. This is how generous Saraswathi is. <br /><br />And regardless of how many students there are, there are very little conversation in the shala. Even hellos are said in hushed tones. You can't help but get wrapped up in reverence when you enter the shala. Once you are outside the shala, is an entirely different scenario. If you want to, it is easy to get into the social scene - the coconut corner, the various cafes, etc. <br /><br />But the main draw is the yoga. You time your sleep around your practice time. You'll even time your meal times! The challenge for me will be to incorporate all this when I go back to Malaysia. I'll probably have to modify my schedule, sometimes fall off it; but, hey, that's yoga!M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-83540507107837591612011-09-10T23:25:00.000-07:002011-09-10T23:27:52.058-07:00Saraswathi's Birthday - Sept 11Happy Birthday, Saraswathi! Thanks for taking care of my yoga practice!M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-29235746046795715182011-09-09T23:30:00.000-07:002011-09-09T23:55:58.687-07:00Led Class And Early Birthday Cake For Saraswathi - Sept 10Saraswathi turns 70 tomorrow. As there is no class tomorrow, some of the yogis decided to surprise her with a birthday cake after class. It was fantastic to see the love and respect her students have for her. Also nice was the sharing of the cake after we sang happy birthday and the blowing out of the candles. I would have loved to take some pictures, but I missed the opportunity. <br /><br />So all this was after led class, which started at 6.30am. There's something nice about how disciplined all the students are, staying in the pose until she calls out the next vinyasa. Because the breaths are in unison, it is like the breaths are amplified. This time I managed to secured a place in the back row so I had a good view of the practices of the others when I reached my part of the series. Amazing flexibility and equally amazing focus. All very motivating!M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-32717169651250475762011-09-07T20:23:00.000-07:002011-09-07T20:57:10.225-07:00Practice - Sept 8Yay. Saraswathi got my fingers to touch on the 2nd side of Mari D. And as much as I was thrilled at this breakthrough, I was equally thrilled at Saraswathi's reaction when the fingers touched. It was a laugh of joy at her student's progress, an expression of delight that the work she has put in and the daily practice has brought about this result that 10 days ago would have seem impossible. Just experiencing this interaction with Saraswathi makes trips like this so worthwhile, so memorable. <br /><br />All this really adds meaning to expressions such as "Guru Parampara" and "practice and all is coming".M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-90988688552826157672011-09-06T20:45:00.000-07:002011-09-07T21:03:00.055-07:00Sept 78 days of practice in. Feeling good. Not pushing too hard and focusing on keeping even breaths. Seems nice to keep it this way. I feel less tired and fresh (not sure if that's the right feeling - good may be more accurate). Part of the feel good factor also comes from Saraswathi getting me to touch my fingers on the 1st side of Mari D and expressing joy at the progress. <br /><br />All is coming!M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-56614884863048110122011-09-05T04:57:00.000-07:002011-09-05T05:34:27.266-07:00Ayurvedic MassageOil, oil, oil. No, I'm not chanting support for a football game. It was the memorable feature of my Ayurvedic massage yesterday. Actually, perhaps the more memorable experience is the sense of your dignity being stripped away. First they tie a string around your waist; then they place a strip of cloth the width of a toilet roll and tuck it behind the string just below your navel. Then you are told to lose your underpants and when they tuck the other end of the cloth behind at the back of your waist, you'll feel pretty much like you're wearing a diaper or a thong. It's hard not to feel a bit self conscious and embarrassed. <br /><br />But you soon forget about all that because you'll be wondering just how much oil they could be using for one massage. I was literally covered in oil; even the hair and face were not spared. Actually, once I move past the self conscious me and how oily it was, the massage was actually very good. They were two therapists and they were like doing synchronised massage for 1 hour 45 minutes. The self conscious part of me came back at the end when I had to get off the massage table. The massage table which is basically now a very oily wooden slab and me being so oily - I was having great difficulty getting off the table and had to helped off by not one but two of the therapists. After that, they put me in a steam bath, which is me sitting enclosed inside a box with just my head sticking out. <br /><br />So, good massage. But it ended at 2pm, which by that time I was famished. And I'm not supposed to have a shower until 1 hour after massage. Just to clarify whether locals are used to the smell of someone who have just had an Ayurvedic massage, I asked the receptionist if people would mind if I went to lunch immediately. I was a bit worried when she gave a nervous giggle and said "no problems, sir". Maybe it was a snigger. But I was too hungry to care by then and headed off to Green Leaf food court. I did choose the outside area to sit and no one actually came to share a table with me. Except for those pesky flies. I like to think they are around for the food. But them buzzing around me made me gobble down my lunch and make a hasty exit and a much needed shower.<br /><br />Holiday today. Can't wait to start practicing again tomorrow.M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-15853793666289351352011-09-03T22:14:00.000-07:002011-09-03T22:31:54.376-07:00Led Class - Sept 4Led class was 6.30am today. So, had a nice lie in till 5am. Feels strange to write that last sentence, but surprisingly, true. Tomorrow is day off - wonder what time I should get up. Anyway, back to led class. As expected, Saraswathi's count is so consistent. Really enjoyed her led class - everybody moving at the same time, all the breaths coming and going at the same time. Made the mistake of laying my mat at the front left corner. Wrong place to be to watch the other practices when one is done with his practice. Next time, I'll pick a spot in the middle of the back row.
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<br />As a treat to completing 6 days back to back practice, I've booked myself a 2 hour massage at the ayurvedic centre just round the corner from my hotel. I'm hoping it's not too oily and that the oil is easy to wash off. We'll see - fingers crossed. M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-23950747719929605972011-09-01T23:12:00.000-07:002011-09-01T23:49:19.687-07:00Mobile Number - Sept 2One thing I noticed during my trips here is that roaming charges, be it voice or data, is really expensive between India and Malaysia. This time I decided to explore the possibility of a prepaid mobile plan. After lots of walking around, eventually I found a place that will get u a new prepaid number. It's at a shop right across Ganesh temple. There are 2 small roads opposite the temple - the shop is on the road on the left as u look from the temple. To get a new number, u'll need 75 rupees and at least 20 rupees recharge value - say 100 rupees in total. And also a copy of your passport.
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<br />Was quite tempted but I'm using an iPhone that is locked to a mobile provider in Malaysia. Somehow, I did not want to risk it as I'm already relying on my phone to access the Internet, plus I'm embarrassed to admit that I don't know how to open my iPhone up to access the sim card inside. In any case, I'm using Viber, which allow Skypelike calls through wifi, and it worked great!!
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<br />Practice was great this morning, although I felt a bit tired because of the celebratory noises from Ganesh festival last night. I must have snored during Savasana because someone mentioned I was sleeping while resting. Am so relieved I didn't receive a "bad man, no sleeping in shala"!M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-79815621473041801952011-09-01T02:02:00.000-07:002011-09-01T02:14:18.840-07:00Sept 1 - Third PracticeGetting the hang of the routine now. Am faster to get ready. First one in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">shala</span> today. So far, the routine has been practice, then breakfast at 8am, then time on computer or walking around. Then lunch at around 1.30pm. And that's it with regards to food. I think I'm losing weight. I've started to buy snacks but I'm thinking maybe I should eat something like a smoothie at around 5pm. I basically start winding down after 6pm. So, that's my typical day in Mysore.<div>
<br /></div><div>There is no led class tomorrow. Normal Mysore practice tomorrow and Saturday. Led class, though, on Sunday as Monday is a holiday. Was looking forward to led class. Part of the fun is that when my part ends, I get to watch the awe inspiring practices of my fellow <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">shala</span> aspirants. That will have to wait till Sunday. </div>M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-32287036068422215162011-08-30T21:12:00.001-07:002011-08-30T22:42:00.342-07:00Aug 31 - Merdeka!Today marks the 54th anniversary of Malaysia's independence from colonial rule. Actually, technically it's Malaya's independence. There is a whole other story about the difference of Malaya and Malaysia. Will not cover it here since this is about my trip in Mysore. But first, Happy Merdeka Day to all Malaysians.
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<br />Second practice at the shala went better. I was more stable during UHP, less dancing, less work for Saraswathi. But still unstable. I heard "touch"; so I tried to bring my head to the knee. but all's that changed was my breathing being more laboured. My knee feels great - by that I mean, no discomfort in the area where my ligament was torn. I tried less fidgeting before my backbends. I'm already trying to prepare for the led class this Friday. Naturally, my breaths become shorter - so my focus during my practice now is to slow down my breath and somehow get more air in and out. That would, of course, mean me staying up longer. But this is as good as any place to build up the discipline!
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<br />Got my first coconut corner experience. Usually, I have my coconut right outside the shala. But this time the few number of students meant the absence of the mobile coconut stand just outside the shala. Hence, the trip to coconut corner near Ganesh temple. There were initially 4 of us there - each from different countries. As time went by, more students pop round. Quickly, I could see how a possible ten minutes drinking coconut could turn into an hour social session. I left early as already I was distracted by thoughts of my delicious breakfast waiting for me at my hotel's rooftop.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5tSoCqQJwIs/Tl3I18BrsMI/AAAAAAAAATo/cejewg9corU/s1600/IMG_0195.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5tSoCqQJwIs/Tl3I18BrsMI/AAAAAAAAATo/cejewg9corU/s200/IMG_0195.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646890336764276930" /></a>M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-35231873562701246052011-08-29T18:34:00.000-07:002011-08-29T19:31:20.879-07:001st Practice - August 30Woke up before the alarm which was set at 3.30am. Was excited and anxious - excited to see Saraswathi again; anxious just in case she showed disappointment in my progress. Something about the walk to the shala calms my mind - it could be the quietness of the morning, the odd sounds of awakening in some households or just the fact I was the lone person walking on the road.
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<br />Turned out I was the third person there. And so began my third visit to this special shala. When Saraswathi entered the shala, I had just finished my 4th Sun Salutation A. I smiled at her when she called us to samasthiti. It looked like she smiled back. Yes! She remembered me.
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<br />Last October, I tore a ligament (LCL) on my right knee. So, I took some time off from yoga and concentrated on stability exercises for my knee. The knee has now progressed really well and I've started practicing at the start of this year. Hence, the anxiousness to see if Saraswathi showed disappointment when it came to Marichyasana D. I sensed no disappointment. In fact, I was given a nice gentle adjustment and the alignment she put me in felt really nice. Immediately, relief came over me and I was able to relax for the rest of practice - which was the finishing poses. Before I was trying so hard in the standing twists, I was perspiring like someone was trying to twist the sweat out of me!
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<br />Great to have started practice. Was really restless yesterday. Walked all around Gokulam and Temple road. On Sunday, I had lunch at the excellent Green hotel. Food is always good there. They now have a bread and pastries cafe inside the hotel. Looks really nice for afternoon tea. Three roads to the left of Green hotel is Gokulam Road. There is now a new supermarket just near the top of Gokulam Road. There will be other retail space above it but construction is still ongoing. Looks like quite a bit of development going on in Gokulam.
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<br />Fingers crossed that my laptop could be fixed this morning.M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-44096997615775895532011-08-28T04:26:00.000-07:002011-08-28T05:15:38.031-07:00Back In MysoreFinally this blog can be resurrected again. Had planned to go last year but Saraswathi was away during my window to travel. I nearly could not make this year due to a bizarre ringing in my ear just 3 days before I was due to leave for Mysore. But all's well and I'm here.
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<br />Of course, there are always setbacks. The laptop I came with decided it's modem is going on strike the moment I used it in Gokulam. Was tempted not to blog but realised I can connect to the Internet through my phone - so all's not lost.
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<br />Even getting the wifi password was not spared of complications. First, the receptionist had to call HQ for the password. Then I heard "iPhone small dash connected" as the password. So I typed "iphone_connected"; when it did not worked, I typed "iphone-connected". No success, so tried "iPhone" in those configurations. But still did not work. Eventually realised she said "hyphen small dash". So we thought we were on the right track with "-connected" . After few tries with her making sure my fingers were pressing the right keys, she had to call. Finally, we were missing a 3 letter word before "-connected"!
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<br />Got myself registered at the shala. Thee's now chanting classes at the shala on Mondays, Weds and Fridays. Was tempted but found out they don't include teaching the meaning behind the words. So, being lazy me, I opted out of it. Tomorrow is moonday so no practice. So my first practice will be Aug 30. And my start time is 5am shala time!M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-11608611402234187552009-10-23T20:58:00.000-07:002009-10-23T21:08:07.818-07:00Until My Next TripSo long until my next Mysore trip. Saving this blog for my future Mysore trips. I have started another blog - <a href="http://crazycacatinthecity.blogspot.com/">Crazy Cacat in the City</a>. Feel free to drop in. It is not a yoga blog - just anything that comes into my scattered mind. But it will contain updates/progress in my yoga journey. Happy practicing, everyone!M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-69624941393822775832009-09-10T21:01:00.000-07:002009-09-10T21:46:04.927-07:00Saraswathi's Birthday - 11 Sept<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/SqnUolqLNOI/AAAAAAAAAMI/r9Y-y-c_IBA/s1600-h/IMG_0939.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/SqnUolqLNOI/AAAAAAAAAMI/r9Y-y-c_IBA/s320/IMG_0939.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380065023639631074" /></a><br />How fitting that my last practice in Mysore should fall on Saraswathi's birthday. How I missed it last year is a good indication of how spaced out a person I am. Was early at the shala, and noticed the senior (senior not in age but in practice) aspirants bringing some flowers to the changing room. I went through a mental checklist - is it some festival? is it Guruji's birthday? is it Friday's prayers? All wrong. The answer came after class ended. A birthday cake was presented to Saraswathi at the stage, and then the senior aspirants went to give Saraswathi the flowers. After that, we all sang Happy Birthday. It was really nice to see the respect and love shown to this great teacher.<br /><br />I was very lucky as I had planned to give Saraswathi a gift after my last class. After the cake cutting, I got changed and went to the office to say my thanks and goodbye. But not before offering the gift as a birthday present. What an opportunist I am - shameful! I took it further and ask for permission for a photo with Saraswathi. Digital camera nowadays come with many features - and one of them is that you can customise the camera in such a way that when a picture is taken, you will hear a dog barking instead of a click. Of course I had change the settings (for the kids!). Anyway, Sharath was in the office at that time and I ask whether he could take the picture of me with Saraswathi. To my horror, I heard a dog bark as he took the picture. He gave a quizzical look at the camera and then at me. At which point, I was completely mortified. Stripped of any dignity, I went for broke and ask for a photo with Sharath! Saraswathi also gave me the same look as Sharath when she took the photo. But it was worth it!<br /><br />What a great two weeks it has been. It has been both enjoyable and inspiring. Now I must remember to change my camera settings back to normal settings.M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-80130610262070293512009-09-09T23:09:00.000-07:002009-09-09T23:38:19.161-07:00Last Self-Practice Class - 10 Sept<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/Sqid2F-2XqI/AAAAAAAAAMA/_8J1DjUjtOc/s1600-h/IMG_0937.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/Sqid2F-2XqI/AAAAAAAAAMA/_8J1DjUjtOc/s320/IMG_0937.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379723307538341538" /></a><br />Mixed feelings about today's practice. Today is the last of Mysore styled classes for me. One part of me wish I could stay on for another 2 weeks, but the other part is already looking forward to seeing family again. Two weeks is a short time, but at this stage in my life, it seems like the right duration. Maybe in years to come, I'll stay for one month, or even two!<br /><br />These two weeks have been really memorable. Starting practice at 5am (4.45am in real time) was something I did not expect, but turned out to be such a blessing. After practice, the outside temperature is still cool and having a coconut after practice, perfect! Imran (I hope I spelt right) always serve the coconuts out with a quiet smile. And then, breakfast at my hotel's rooftop - really nice. But don't leave your plate unattended for a minute or the birds will be your breakfast friends.<br /><br />So, only tomorrow's led class left, which I am really looking forward to. I wish there is someway adequate to describe the first opening inhale, but it's probably best to experience first hand.M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-88866694033016470992009-09-08T20:57:00.000-07:002009-09-08T21:32:18.000-07:00Practice - 9 Sept<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/SqcugC47z8I/AAAAAAAAAL4/RSF0Hx_JV_U/s1600-h/IMG_0931.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/SqcugC47z8I/AAAAAAAAAL4/RSF0Hx_JV_U/s320/IMG_0931.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379319407983710146" /></a><br />It's funny how natural it has become to start getting ready for bed when it's still light outside. At first it took some getting used to; but now 7.30pm felt like bedtime. Last night I was woken up by a knock on my door in the middle of the night. Well, I say in the middle of the night; it was really around 9. He asked whether I was ready to go some place. He only realised he had the wrong room when his friend told him. After that, I was wide awake and quietly cursing him, planning ways to steal his sleep. The thought of knocking on his door when I'm leaving for yoga the next morning (this morning) came to mind. "Are you ready to go to class? Oops, sorry, got the wrong room." Soon as "yoga" flashed into my mind, I quickly admonished myself for entertaining such thoughts.<br /><br />Nevertheless, practice continues to be enjoyable. There is something about practicing together with such dedicated aspirants (I picked up this word from Yoga Mala). In football, the standard of play generally goes up when you are up against a really good team. I think it is the same practicing here. Not that I'm up against anybody; I hope you know what I mean. Binding continues to be easier - well, incrementally - but at least it is not going backwards. What I really enjoy is the energy in the shala and Saraswathi's presence - always watchful and always there when needed.<br /><br />This morning I caught sight of Sharath! He was with his son. Nice surprise as I thought he was away on a world tour. I don't think he will teach, but how nice it would be if he did for my last 2 practices to come!M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-24721533834567013102009-09-07T21:21:00.000-07:002009-09-07T21:42:32.495-07:00Practice - 8 Sept<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/SqXga85BvAI/AAAAAAAAALw/MIwtKlqeSzE/s1600-h/IMG_0929.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/SqXga85BvAI/AAAAAAAAALw/MIwtKlqeSzE/s320/IMG_0929.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378952083590462466" /></a><br />Beginning to feel more and more settled practicing in this famous shala. Was able to remember the alignment that I've been trying to get into for Mari D, and applied the same alignment for Mari C. It certainly felt different, and the binds were deeper. On one side, I'm almost reaching my wrist! And doing this for Mari C seemed to help for Mari D. It was quicker to bind, and I hope less work for Saraswathi this week than last.<br /><br />Last week in Mysore. Time has flown! Going to savour the next few practices till I leave.M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-58100525657973368622009-09-07T02:46:00.000-07:002009-09-07T03:23:05.836-07:007 Sept - First Use Of ATM In Mysore<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/SqTXBT5DMNI/AAAAAAAAALo/wqnDrwsf3HI/s1600-h/IMG_0933.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/SqTXBT5DMNI/AAAAAAAAALo/wqnDrwsf3HI/s320/IMG_0933.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378660272506613970" /></a><br />Took me all of 3 weeks before I found an ATM that I could use in Mysore. If your ATM has an icon with the word "PLUS" on it, there's an ATM machine next to Barista (coffee outlet like a Starbucks) that will work. It is an Axis Bank ATM, and it's on Temple Road. Sorry, just a reference point for future use, plus it is a big relief to know I have access to my bank account in Malaysia.<br /><br />Back to my practice. Mysore style today. Was taking it easy as I was feeling tired when I woke up. Somehow, found some energy midway through standing. Was able to stay steady during Utthita Hasta Padangushtasana but I had help - plus the counts are faster when there's help during self practice classes. Yay! But she stayed to make sure the leg stayed parallel to the floor when hands are back at the waist. So, can't let go of focus.<br /><br />Marichyasana D seemed easier to bind today - well, I hope Saraswathi think so too. I think I'm getting an idea of the alignment she wanted during Marichyasana D. It makes it harder to bind as it requires more twist in the body. In the long run, it will be good for me.<br /><br />I'm still quite pleased I found out about the ATM. Next time I don't have to lug around a money belt with me all the time!M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-74135386720580271142009-09-05T21:13:00.000-07:002009-09-05T21:53:56.198-07:00Sunday Led Class - 6 Sept<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/SqM_lHUiyTI/AAAAAAAAALg/9NZY6-EUH88/s1600-h/IMG_0930.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/SqM_lHUiyTI/AAAAAAAAALg/9NZY6-EUH88/s320/IMG_0930.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378212286863427890" /></a><br />Had been looking forward to today's led class. Having Friday and Saturday off felt like a weekend - so much so, yesterday I had a mild panic attack and thought I missed Sunday's led class. Talk about spaced out yogi!<br /><br />As expected, the shala came to life with the first resonating inhale as the hands go up in unison. Managed not to dance so much in Utthita Hasta Padangushtasana, although my breathing has none of the serenity associated with yoga. Was really grateful to Saraswathi when she came to adjust me in Mari D. Even though I was bit stiff, she gave me two goes on the right side, and then stayed to help with the left. By Navasana, I was trying to catch my breath from my efforts in Mari D. But then, with the slow counting during Navasana, I lost my breath again and by the fifth Navasana, I was a shaking wreck. So, haha, made it through Navasana. Now, I could relax and watch the rest sweat. Just as I got comfortable, Saraswathi smiled and ask me to do Bhujapidasana. So much for resting, but I was like the dog I met this morning, happy for any attention.<br /><br />After class, rushed back to clean up and made it to Mass at Sacred Heart Church at Yadav Giri. Made good time and was even early. All of a sudden, I was asked by one of the church helpers to read the first reading. I wanted to say I can't but somehow "sure" came out. Was so nervous that I nearly read the wrong reading. Thank goodness, someone came to help with the microphone and I discretely pointed at the section I was supposed to read and got a discrete nod back.<br /><br />Well, considering the last two days of not doing much, except read, eat, and walk into shops, I felt really productive this morning and it's not even half past ten!M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-53402223534914723422009-09-03T01:39:00.000-07:002009-09-03T02:28:28.334-07:00Led Class - 3 Sept<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/Sp-KKNE4-5I/AAAAAAAAALY/PVTxEC8pSss/s1600-h/IMG_0928.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/Sp-KKNE4-5I/AAAAAAAAALY/PVTxEC8pSss/s320/IMG_0928.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377168388017159058" /></a><br />Led class this morning. Not sure whether I was nervous, but I slept badly the night before. Woke up tired, and thought, thank goodness, tomorrow is moonday. I would just practice and go back to rest. Reached shala early and took a space at the back - less pressure, I had hoped. I was glad I went early. I could sit and look around the shala. There was a big painting of Guruji at the center of the stage and another big picture beside it. Felt moved, just sitting there and looking at the painting, with Guruji smiling back at us.<br /><br />Slowly the shala began to fill up. One thing that struck me is the reverent atmosphere before class begin. There were no chit chat in the room. Any voices heard were from the changing room and even then it's kept to a minimum and in low volume. It's quite something to see so many people in a room, waiting with total silence.<br /><br />Then Saraswathi came and all stood at the front of the mat. Opening chant, and then the class began. That first inhale, as the hands went up, was so breathtaking. I guess I was taken aback as I had not taken a led class with so many students. Any tiredness felt earlier was replaced by adrenaline from that first inhale. Even my breaths seemed noticeably louder.<br /><br />Class was fun. Everyone was moving in unison, each transition is held until the next vinyasa is called. This year, Saraswathi's count seem to be a lot longer. By the time, I reached Navasana, I was a spent force. After that, I happily sat and watch the other inspiring practices around me.<br /><br />Joined back at backbends. Was glad I had the rest between Navasana and backbends. The counts seemed like it was played out in slow motion. Class finished with closing chant, which I could barely do as I was out of breath. Next practice is another led class, coming this Sunday. Can't wait!M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-34531863273620022722009-09-02T01:52:00.000-07:002009-09-02T02:09:05.039-07:00Third Practice - 2 Sept<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/Sp41g_OglbI/AAAAAAAAALQ/Ybbrf8lL9EE/s1600-h/IMG_0927.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/Sp41g_OglbI/AAAAAAAAALQ/Ybbrf8lL9EE/s320/IMG_0927.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376793845971326386" /></a><br />Already third practice, and already settled in the daily routine of waking up early. No noticing of mosquitoes during practice, but they are still around during savasana. Obviously, yesterday's slap to the ear had done me more harm than them.<br /><br />Bound again on both sides - of course, with a great deal of help from Saraswathi. I wonder how is it she is always in my vicinity when I reach Marichyasana D. Could she be planning her routes when there is a quiet period? Amazing. The shala is so big and packed with practitioners.<br /><br />Led class tomorrow as Friday is moonday. Am looking forward to it.M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-25990143067495872112009-09-01T01:23:00.000-07:002009-09-01T02:11:39.214-07:00Second Practice - 1 Sept<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/Spzar8CELKI/AAAAAAAAALI/qdXGKAX_Vl4/s1600-h/IMG_0924.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/Spzar8CELKI/AAAAAAAAALI/qdXGKAX_Vl4/s320/IMG_0924.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376412503557549218" /></a><br />Had my second day today. Quite like the idea of being the first batch to practice. The walk to the shala is so calming. No one is up yet - only us crazy people. Once I heard the sound of a motorcycle approaching behind me and I took a mental wager that it would be a yoga student. And it was!<br /><br />Body was less stiff this morning - the binds on the Marichyasana D were easier, of course with Saraswathi's help. With less stiffness, comes with less strength - that was me this morning. Have to admit to dancing with Saraswathi when she came over to help with <a href="http://ashtangayoga.info/asana-vinyasa/primary-series/index.html">Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana</a>. I was quite glad when I reached Navasana. Shala was full today and the heat was more than yesterday. I was drenched when I finished with Navasana. I think those practicing next to me were relieved when I left to do the finishing poses in the changing room. Quite happy that my mind was less scattered than yesterday. Did not notice any mosquitoes during downward dogs. Just during savasana, when one of them kept buzzing around my left ear - that was when I quickly ended my savasana with a violent slap to my ear.<br /><br />Had my coconut outside. I think I was the first to finish today, no one was around. So nice to finish early - the air was still cool and when I got back to my hotel, the security guy was still sleeping in the same position as when I left earlier! No dozing off today while waiting for breakfast to start - although I did lose time a couple of times while reading my book. So far, I kept to a vegetarian diet (well, except for omelette for breakfast) - although I have been thinking of the gin and tonic I had at the Green hotel last year. Very nice. Maybe dinner at the Green hotel this Thursday, as Friday is moonday ...M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-8796426930722492122009-08-31T00:44:00.000-07:002009-08-31T01:13:37.983-07:00First Practice - 31 August<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/SpuFaFeEzfI/AAAAAAAAALA/R_WNNFlzpbI/s1600-h/IMG_0917.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/SpuFaFeEzfI/AAAAAAAAALA/R_WNNFlzpbI/s320/IMG_0917.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376037263388233202" /></a><br />The big plus about starting at 5 in the morning is doing the opening chant together with the rest. And it's nice to start the practice with most; though, I'm puzzled to find still more people coming in at 5.45am or later.<br /><br />Practice was great, but my mind was all over the place. In downward dog, I was noticing the mosquitoes around me. Do I swat at them? What if Saraswathi notice me? I think I'll have to risk dengue, concentrate on the dristhis! When I reached the first balancing pose (Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana), I noticed Saraswathi coming over to help. Please don't dance (wobble), just concentrate on dristhis and breathe deeply.<br /><br />Other than my wandering thoughts, practice was really enjoyable. Got help with Marichyasana D - I was a bit stiff but Saraswathi managed to bind me on BOTH sides! Yay! And I've got Navasana. On my first day!<br /><br />Went back to hotel after practice. But not before a coconut outside the shala. That's when you get to say hellos to other practitioners. Anyway, cleaned up when I got back and still have time to kill before breakfast begins at 8.30am. The early morning start and the adrenaline of being back at the shala must have taken its toll. I dozed off while waiting for breakfast and almost missed the breakfast window.<br /><br />Felt great to have started. But have started to miss my family - so big shout out to Aggie, Ching Li and Ching Yan. Haha. You can now google your names on the internet.M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596101535243382157.post-16296222809582667832009-08-30T04:42:00.000-07:002009-08-31T01:16:55.424-07:005am Start Time<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/Sppnfb7VN3I/AAAAAAAAAK4/Qjt6T3n0OC4/s1600-h/IMG_0923.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XE5RebytUXo/Sppnfb7VN3I/AAAAAAAAAK4/Qjt6T3n0OC4/s320/IMG_0923.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375722894990325618" /></a><br />I thought I was seeing wrong or needed reading glasses. After extending the card further away, the start time still read 5am. Last year, my start time was 8.45am. Just when I got over my shock, I was then told to follow the time as displayed by the clock in the shala; which upon closer examination is 15 minutes fast! So, effectively, start time is 4.45am! Which means bedtime is latest at 8pm. So, sorry, can't stay up and chat. Got to get myself in sleep mode soon.M_in_Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12178886479826936353noreply@blogger.com2