Malaysian in Mysore

My Teacher In Mysore

2011-09-19T02:45:00.000-07:00

Hope you'll enjoy this video as much as I did. :)

Final Week - Sept 13

2011-09-12T21:19:00.000-07:00

Onto 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.

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.

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!

Saraswathi's Birthday - Sept 11

2011-09-10T23:25:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Saraswathi! Thanks for taking care of my yoga practice!

Led Class And Early Birthday Cake For Saraswathi - Sept 10

2011-09-09T23:30:00.000-07:00

Saraswathi 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.

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!

Practice - Sept 8

2011-09-07T20:23:00.000-07:00

Yay. 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.

All this really adds meaning to expressions such as "Guru Parampara" and "practice and all is coming".

Sept 7

2011-09-06T20:45:00.000-07:00

8 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.

All is coming!

Ayurvedic Massage

2011-09-05T04:57:00.000-07:00

Oil, 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.

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.

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.

Holiday today. Can't wait to start practicing again tomorrow.

Led Class - Sept 4

2011-09-03T22:14:00.000-07:00

Led 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.

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.

Mobile Number - Sept 2

2011-09-01T23:12:00.000-07:00

One 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.

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!!

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"!

Sept 1 - Third Practice

2011-09-01T02:02:00.000-07:00

Getting the hang of the routine now. Am faster to get ready. First one in shala 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.

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 shala aspirants. That will have to wait till Sunday.

Aug 31 - Merdeka!

2011-08-30T21:12:00.001-07:00

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.

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!

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.

1st Practice - August 30

2011-08-29T18:34:00.000-07:00

Woke 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.

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.

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!

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.

Fingers crossed that my laptop could be fixed this morning.

Back In Mysore

2011-08-28T04:26:00.000-07:00

Finally 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.

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.

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"!

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!

Until My Next Trip

2009-10-23T20:58:00.000-07:00

So long until my next Mysore trip. Saving this blog for my future Mysore trips. I have started another blog - Crazy Cacat in the City. 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!

Saraswathi's Birthday - 11 Sept

2009-09-10T21:01:00.000-07:00

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.

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!

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.

Last Self-Practice Class - 10 Sept

2009-09-09T23:09:00.000-07:00

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!

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.

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.

Practice - 9 Sept

2009-09-08T20:57:00.000-07:00

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.

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.

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!

Practice - 8 Sept

2009-09-07T21:21:00.000-07:00

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.

Last week in Mysore. Time has flown! Going to savour the next few practices till I leave.

7 Sept - First Use Of ATM In Mysore

2009-09-07T02:46:00.000-07:00

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.

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.

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.

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!

Sunday Led Class - 6 Sept

2009-09-05T21:13:00.000-07:00

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!

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.

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.

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!

Led Class - 3 Sept

2009-09-03T01:39:00.000-07:00

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Third Practice - 2 Sept

2009-09-02T01:52:00.000-07:00

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.

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.

Led class tomorrow as Friday is moonday. Am looking forward to it.

Second Practice - 1 Sept

2009-09-01T01:23:00.000-07:00

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!

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 Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana. 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.

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 ...

First Practice - 31 August

2009-08-31T00:44:00.000-07:00

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

5am Start Time

2009-08-30T04:42:00.000-07:00

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.

First Day - 30 August

2009-08-30T02:14:00.000-07:00

Got into Bangalore Airport last night around 11pm. Felt relieved when I saw my bag at the pick up carousel - I had a really tight transit at Singapore Airport - had to literally run to catch the flight to Bangalore. Also relieved when I saw my name amongst the numerous name placards held up outside the departure hall. Thanks, Murthy!

It was 21 °C - such a nice change from hot and humid Malaysia. The ride to Mysore was eventful. Getting out of Bangalore, my taxi had to make a hard swerve to avoid this motorcyclist, who was flung from the oncoming side of the highway to literally just 20m in front of us. Then I saw 2 incidents of road rage, which I did not even see a hint of during my trip to India last year. It's Saturday, explained my taxi driver during a chai break in the journey. A lot of drink driving on Fridays and Saturdays. I was completely wired till we reached Mysore at half two in the morning.

I'm staying at a new hotel called Urban Oasis Compact, which is ten minutes walk to the shala. The size of the room and bathroom is half that of the room at Green hotel, where I stayed last year. Whilst the Green hotel has a lot of character and charm of an established colonial hotel, Urban Oasis is one of those new no-frills hotel, but has Samsung flat screen TVs in each room and comes with free wifi and breakfast at rooftop of the building. Speaking of rooftops, most houses in Gokulam have flat roofs and many use the rooftop for their own recreational use.

Found out the time to register is slightly after 4pm. I wonder whether there will be conference in the shala today. Usually on Sundays, there is a conference / Q and A at the shala. Great to finally be here!

Final Thoughts Before Heading Off

2009-08-28T08:47:00.000-07:00

I'm finally leaving for Mysore tomorrow! It will be exactly a year to when I first left for Mysore. I thought I would not be nervous, but as the days grew nearer, some panic and doubts are starting to creep in. What am I doing again? The first time I went was to see the source of this magical practice, to feel the place where it began and to meet the people who started teaching this. Well, I've done that. Yet, the longing to go back has been building up over the year - so much so when the opportunity arises, I grabbed it.

What do I hope to achieve this time? I'm only going for two weeks. Well, in some ways, this time makes more sense. I've been there, studied there for the same duration. If the longing is there, it can't be a look into the unknown, be a tourist and take in the sights. I find myself looking forward to seeing and learning from Saraswathi again, looking forward to a regular practice, maybe even a vegetarian diet - although I'm slightly apprehensive as to whether I have made sufficient progress in this one year. Though I know it makes more sense to go for a longer period, I simply can't afford the time. These two weeks are already a luxury, and this I can't thank my better half enough. I'll come back a more patient man!

Well, time to pack and gather myself together. Next time, I'll be reporting from Mysore!

Update On Ashtanga Scene In Kuala Lumpur

2009-08-06T22:38:00.000-07:00

Great news for Ashtangis looking for Mysore style classes. Received above flyer in my mailbox this morning. Incidentally, she also has Mysore classes on Saturdays at Yoga2Health, 3pm.

July Highlights

2009-07-28T02:36:00.000-07:00

Fell off the blogging bandwagon, in part due to a failure to maintain my self practice. I've found it so easy to lose the morning practice routine. A 15 minute lie-in would eventually lead to a reluctance to get on the mat, with the excuse that a rushed practice is not an ideal practice. Soon 15 minute lie-ins became a regular morning habit, and so went my morning yoga habit.

I took to relying on classes for my practice. Sometimes it is a rush to get to class, giving opportunities for excuses to creep in. With a scattered mind, even during classes, the practices have felt laboured. Still, there were times when I remembered the breaths and forgot my expectations - these were the times when my practices have felt light and joyous. These, though, have been few and far between.

Highlight for July has been the arrival of Manchester United in KL for a friendly match against a Malaysia Selection. I managed to get tickets for the match, and even got a Meet The Fans pass. Of course, I took leave off work to meet the players up close. As the queue got longer, it became embarrassingly obvious that I was the oldest fan. Well, there were other older "fans"; but these were parents accompanying their children. My excuse for not bringing mine was that they were not really fans - they had only heard of Van der Sar (see this post) and Christiano Ronaldo (who hasn't?).

But I did bring them to the match - partly to let them see there are so many other people even more fanatical about Manchester United than me. As it turned out, the stadium was packed with a sea of fans wearing red. The atmosphere was charged with excitement. It was a great match, with Manchester drawing first blood with goals from Rooney and Nani. Then, when Malaysia scored with a fantastic goal, the stadium went feverish with everyone chanting "Malaysia, Malaysia". And, the whole stadium almost went into a frenzy when Malaysia equalised. It became a very open game; with Malaysia trying for an upset win, and Manchester trying to restore their advantage. It was almost story-like that the match was settled with the winning goal from Michael Owen near the end of the match.

My kids now felt some connection with Manchester United - they now know more players, notably Rooney, Ryan Giggs, Rio Ferdinand and Michael Owen. Although I did make a special effort to mention Paul Scholes and the way he reads the game, etc, but I think I tried too hard and lost them in the process.

August is now fast approaching. My next highlight will happen at the end of August, for I will be making a two week trip to Mysore! It will be exactly a year from when I made my first trip last year. I can't wait.

Bing

2009-06-17T07:51:00.000-07:00

Bing is the name of my mother-in-law's dog. He is one of those small white dogs - small in size but plenty of yaps. That was when he was young. He is now eleven or twelve years old, which I guess in dog years is around 80! He still has plenty of running left in him, but his bark has gone noticeably softer.

I always make a point of greeting him with a pat; partly because everyone else is so used to having him around that they go about their own things first. I do it because if ever I were to be a dog, I would like to be acknowledged when visitors visit. Our routine would be him standing on his hind legs with his front paws on my thigh and me patting his head. We would be there until one of us get bored and leave to do something else. Then I would have this Obsessive Compulsive Disorder of washing my hands before touching anything else. Why I do this, I don't really know. Maybe he is getting old and sometimes he gets a bit smelly. But I just got to wash my hands.

I always have this strange feeling that Bing likes to mock me. Every time he notices me washing my hands, he would come over for a pat and our routine would start again. When it starts to get tiring, I would put off washing my hands but the mutt frustratingly would not come over. I would then wash my hands when he is out of sight and hope I can enjoy being in my in-law's house before my next trip to the basin.

Yesterday evening I was in my in-law's house again. A hot cup of coffee was brought to me and I had the use of the computer. Also, my in-laws have just bought this excellent bottle of peanuts; so everything seemed perfect for a spot of peanuts with coffee. Just as I sat down, I noticed Bing coming towards me. Instinctively, I closed my hands over the peanuts and stared intently at the computer to avoid eye contact. Ha! It worked. He did not come over and lied down nearby. I can then enjoy my peanuts guilt-free. Or so I thought. I found myself, discretely putting some peanuts into my mouth and chewing ever so slowly that Bing would not notice the crunch of the nuts.

How pathetic am I?! Or was I being selfish? Maybe I should be thinking about karma and be not so much into myself. Speaking of karma, I have been enjoying my practice; but the progress seemed to have plateau off. I need to kick it into another gear - or should I?

I've been thinking of returning to Mysore for two weeks - the same duration as my first time. My Home Minister has given the go ahead. If I can get past the guilt factor and embrace the selfish one, I could be in Mysore in September!

Paying Homage

2009-05-29T02:45:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday's tribute class to Pattabhi Jois was very nice. A picture of Guruji was on a projector screen at the front of the class, and there were lots of people, including children. A section of the studio was set aside for the kids, and the studio was packed with mats just inches from each other.

As ashtanga is still in its infancy stage in KL and not many people know much about Guruji, Manoj started by talking a bit on the biography of Guruji and his dedication in teaching ashtanga. The picture of a 20 year old Manoj with Guruji was memorable, and brought some laughter (maybe because of the post practice hair!). Fantastic also to see Manoj's son and wife with Guruji many years later (how many is for Manoj to reveal, I'm afraid).

Practice started after listening to a CD recording of Guruji doing the opening chant. Quite fittingly, the practice also ended with Guruji's closing chant just before savasana. It was a very nice tribute and it left me wishing I had gone to Mysore earlier to hear his chant in person.

Thank you for the gift of a magnificent practice!

Class Tribute To Guruji This Sunday

2009-05-22T07:21:00.000-07:00

There will be a class dedicated to Guruji, Pattabhi Jois, this Sunday at the studio I go to. It will start at 9.30am and last 90 minutes. Please go to studio 2, which is above Island Cafe.

Farewell

2009-05-18T23:54:00.000-07:00

Guruji, Shri K. Pattabhi Jois, passed away on May 18, 2009. Though I have not met him personally, I was fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of him when I was in Mysore last year. I had wanted to say thank you to him for introducing this type of yoga to the world.

The practice has given me lots of joy. My trip to Mysore has certainly given me an insight to the generosity of the Jois family in teaching this practice to the world. Then I studied with Saraswathi, and I was so in awe of her endless energy and enthusiasm in teaching the class. Guruji must have set the standards; and I'm sure the teaching of ashtanga is in good hands with Sharath and Saraswathi.

Back To Practice

2009-05-13T01:25:00.000-07:00

Quick update on my visit to the cardiologist. Stress test is fine except that my base BP is on borderline hypertensive. Medication is recommended, although he did say it's not needed now - but early treatment is preferred to late. However, my doctor wanted to monitor the BP a few more times before I take the plunge to medication. Apparently, she felt the cardiologist tend to take the more aggressive stance, while she is the conservative one. So, I guess I'm still in a limbo.

Life continues and I'm back into my yoga practice. My first couple of practices were careful and slow. I'm pleased and pleasantly surprised that I haven't lost too much flexibility; and with each additional practice I'm reaching my pre-injured state. Stamina, though, has taken a hit. Vinyasas felt heavy!! But so nice to be back with the practice - the breaths, the movements, the sweat (it's been super hot in KL these few weeks) and the final releasing of everything at savasana!

Final test of my getting back in action later tonight. Have futsal this evening. Am so inspired - anyone saw Man Utd's third goal in the 2nd leg of the Champion's League semifinal? Counter attack to the perfection!!

Getting Back

2009-05-05T06:48:00.000-07:00

Went to the gym to get my battered body back into action, The fond memories of the gym came back as I entered the gym. This was the place where I have spent a lot time doing rehab exercises after the surgery on my shoulder. I haven't even started yoga then. But the awareness in healing my body started in this place.

Anyway, started on the treadmill. The back felt fine even at jogging pace. Then tested range of motion with light weights. Felt really good after the session. I think it may be good to set some time aside for strength and cardio work, besides the yoga. I find sometimes with ashtanga, where for me the sequence is repetitive, there is a tendency of overworking certain joint movements. Perhaps, sacrificing some practice days with gym days has its benefits.

Time, though, is a constraint. At times I'm tempted to just practice daily in my eagerness to advance further in the primary series. That's when I find the discipline to practice detachment hard. This may all be a moot point. I have an appointment to do a stress test with a cardiologist as part of my medical check up. With my family's history of high blood pressure and diabetes, I may well have to do a regular cardio regime. Question will be whether I need to go on medication ...

Out Of Action

2009-04-26T23:02:00.000-07:00

Happened during futsal. A seemingly harmless shot at goal, I simply went to punch the ball out. Strangely, I felt my back seized up. Even more distressing, I could not straighten up and have to limped off like an old man. I didn't even have a fall to justify my exit.

It could be three things :
1) I've been concentrating too much on flexibility and neglected strength training;
2) sign of age;
3) these things happen.

Funnily, I could bend forward; but straightening up was very gingerly. That night was restless with attempts at all kinds of sleeping positions; but to no avail. The next day the physiotherapist noted one of the facet of the spine was blocked, and promptly manipulated it back. What a relief! That night I could finally straighten out my legs on the bed and was just getting comfortable when the wife decided to talk about her woes at work. Woe is me - I remembered reflecting then.

Of course, no yoga since then. Am thinking of cutting back on the practice and spending some time at the gym. Not ready to cut out the futsal yet. But perhaps this latest mishap is telling me I'm getting on. Well, the body may be getting on but the mind is too stubborn to acknowledge that.

Stand By Me

2009-04-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

Something to share this Easter Sunday. http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=2539741

Futsal Last Night

2009-04-08T09:49:00.000-07:00

Went to my weekly game of futsal last night. There were 17 of us, so some of us would wait for one of the teams of fives to be eliminated before going in. It was towards the end of our allotted 2 hour session when another team was supposed to go in again. I was waiting to see how many players would enter the pitch when one of the players called out in my direction, "Vanessa, get in!". I looked up and a few others joined in, looking at me and calling in unison "Vanessa, your turn". Puzzled, I got up and muttered to my buddy next to me - "Why are they calling me Vanessa?". I got an all too loud reply, "They're calling you Van der Sar. Go and clean your ears, old man!". Nice buddies I have in futsal. I guess they are calling me Van der Sar because I look a bit like the goalkeeper at Manchester United. Not sure if it's a compliment but it beats being called Vanessa. For a painful moment, I thought I had been given a new nickname for playing like a girl. I was ready to blame the yoga - all this ahimsa nonsense!

Recently my wife noticed my spending a lot of time reading yoga blogs. The other day, she gave me a funny look when she caught me watching back to back episodes of "The Biggest Loser". If I'm not careful, she might start calling me Vanessa.

Death Wish

2009-04-02T06:36:00.000-07:00

Had a close shave on the way to work this morning. This motorcyclist suddenly appeared in my front of my car trying get from the left lane to the far right. Luckily, traffic was congested so cars were not travelling fast. Managed to brake in time; but this guy didn't appear to realise that there may be a car on the next lane. Helpless, I watched him bumped into the car on my right; and somehow he managed to get to the pavement on the right hand side of the car! He seemed fine, but I'm guessing he'll be facing some verbal abuse from the driver of the car. So, the adage for today was - better late than never.

Practice today was great. Marichyasana D is getting there. Nowhere near binding by myself but I feel I'm getting deeper. Lately, during headstand, I'm starting to get a feel for Urdhva Dandasana. Somehow, today I could not seem to get the hips flexion to get the legs down. After a couple of seconds trying, I decided to give Urdhva Dandasana a miss. Better slow to advance in asana than be injured.

Practice This Week

2009-03-25T06:35:00.000-07:00

The weekend at Port Dickson was restful and nice. No yoga. Just family time at the beach. Food there is so cheap, compared with KL's prices. Hainanese cooks still exist in some restaurants, and they make the best chicken chop with fries! The beach is all right. But you can't beat the east coast of Malaysia for quality of beach and clear seas.

Could not fit in practice this morning as I woke up late. But, managed to fit in a quick practice after work. Today's practice was sweaty as it was about to rain when I started. Somehow, rainy days make the air so humid. Am thankful for the cotton rugs I bought from Mysore as I was starting to slip and slide on the mat. As I woke up this morning with a stiff neck, I skipped shoulder and headstand during finishing. The abbreviated practice today felt great as I felt more energised than I normally would. Tomorrow is moon day, so no practice - which I'm quite happy about. Looking forward to class on Friday evening, although it might be a full vinyasa led class as last Fridays and Sundays of the month are full vinyasa days at the studio I go to!

Led Primary

2009-03-19T23:48:00.000-07:00

Made it to the Friday morning class as I took leave from work today. Class started with ujjayi breathing while in a forward bend. "Focus on the ujjayi breaths. Use it to block out the noise outside. Along the way, you may pick up some sensations with the breath..." our teacher was saying, with tongue in cheek, as just then the garbage truck was making some ruckus outside the studio. Ya, ha ha, good one.

After the truck passed, led class started. Class was nice, the early awareness of the breaths was helpful to the practice. I find I'm getting my head to the mat at Prasarita Padottanasana A quite consistently during my practice now. My legs are quite wide apart, though. I'm still not able to put my head down in B, but I can now feel my hair touching the mat. That said, my last haircut was a month ago. I think I'll start moving my feet in after I can get my head on the mat in A. B, C and D and come up on my own. I have once got my head down in B, but my legs were bent and I found I could not get up without the use of my hands.

Great to have practiced in a class. Now off to Port Dickson for the weekend!

Road Rage

2009-03-13T07:01:00.000-07:00

A car jumped queue and cut in front of me. All of a sudden, I felt this uncontrollable anger growing inside me. The lane cleared and I can feel myself pressing the pedal a little too harshly than I should. I had to literally hold myself back. Then, what do you know - I noticed the offending car stuck in a slow lane. As my car passed his, our eyes met and I'm so tempted to show him the finger. I took some long ujayi breaths - it worked long enough for me to pass his car without showing him the finger, but really, not enough to dissipate the rage inside.

Made it to class early today. I was the second one there. But the first student is staying out of the shala as Manoj (our teacher) was in the front of the studio, sitting absolutely still and meditating. It was the first time I see him meditating in class. I lay out my mat silently and also sat silently, just enjoying the stillness. At once, I feel the rage leaving me - the energy was so good. I wonder, though - did my negative energy sap his positive energy?

Class was great. I've done some self practice early this week. It felt so energising practising with other people. Their energy just seem to add a bit more energy to my practice. After class, I find myself wondering whether to incorporate sitting still and do some sort of meditation as part of my practice.

Practice Notes - 5 March 2009

2009-03-05T03:33:00.000-08:00

Am excited as I experienced something different in my jump back during practice today. I wanted to see how my jump back will be affected if I extend my inhale during the lift up. At the end of the asana, I prolonged the inhale during the look up part as well as the exhale as I put my hands down in preparation for the lift. I then started the lift and then concentrated on a slow and extended inhale as I continue lifting as high as I can in the span of the inhale. The result felt like a much higher lift back. Wished I had a camera to see the difference. Sometimes one feels a lot of difference in the movement but visually it is only a tiny difference.

Anyway, this may be peculiar only to me; or just peculiar to today's practice. The impact on savasana was terrible - instead of emptying my mind, I was thinking of documenting my practice. Bad man! The rest of the practice felt nice - it has been very humid in KL lately and it was like practicing in a sauna! Which made today's practice all the more surprising as I was trying to hold back and concentrate on the breath. Sometimes when you don't expect much, the practice can surprise you.

Marichyasana D Progress - 26 Feb 2009

2009-02-28T06:15:00.000-08:00

Documenting my progress in Marichyasana D. I still cannot bind on my own in Marichyasana D. But it's getting there. A lot of improvement since the Mysore trip. This is also attributed to renewed commitment to put in a more regular practice.

Just reviewing the video clip; I'm noticing my lower back collapsing at the end of my upward dog. Now wondering how I can improve on this.

Class Today

2009-02-17T06:41:00.000-08:00

Made it to Tuesday's flow class today. First time since the Chinese New Year festival started! Started with a bit of pranayama; which is nice as it helps bring the mind to present after a day's work. Then asanas started with sivananda styled sun salutations. I think they are really good for someone like me with tight hips.

Today's focus was on backbends. I know it's good for me; but it seems so daunting. Anyway, I managed to struggle through it. There was one pose that looked so simple - it was a variation of cobra with one leg bent and one arm lifted at the same side - we're supposed to keep the elbow in line with the body but somehow mine just stayed splayed out to the side! Others can do it, some could even catch the leg that was bent behind!

I was quietly trying, but not too hard as I was trying to keep even breaths. All of a sudden, when it came to Kapotasana, my teacher singled me out to demonstrate a dropback to the posture! Maybe it was punishment for my lack of tapas, or maybe it's a demo that if this stiff man can try a drop back, then the rest can jolly well try!

For those who have seen my upward dog, (http://malaysianinmysore.blogspot.com/2008/10/testing-video-upload.html) there was no way that I could drop back successfully. But teacher has given the command, so I dutifully followed. Luckily he was kind - just when I was anticipating a drop to my head, I felt support from Manoj.

I felt great after class. It wasn't a tiring practice. It was softer and at the same time, so challenging that the mind had to stay present and focused. Of course, the focus came after the shock of having to demonstrate in class!

Thaipusam And Chap Goh Mei

2009-02-09T01:02:00.000-08:00

Today is a holiday in Kuala Lumpur, it being Thaipusam. Thaipusam is a religious festival for Hindus to pay annual homage to Lord Muruga. Near Kuala Lumpur, there is a procession to Batu Caves that is visually quite spectacular. Close to 800,000 people throng Batu Caves for this celebration.

Today also happens to be the final day of Chinese New Year festivities. I must say I'm quite happy to see the end of the festival. So much eating! Every time one attends a house visit, one is obliged to eat what is put in front of you. It is only polite, of course. However, being Chinese, the host will usually pile on more food than one could normally eat - after all it's Chinese New Year - the more you give the more you will receive!

As a result, it plays havoc to my practice. Every vinyasa feels so heavy. So, one more dinner tonight and then back to normal portions tomorrow! For the Hokkiens, tonight is also known as Chap Goh Mei, "the 15th night of Chinese New Year". Also known as the Chinese Valentine's Day, there is a tradition in Penang that single women will throw tangerines into the sea with hope of finding husbands. It is said that if someone else spots a floating tangerine and picks it up, the thrower will find a good spouse.

This reminds me of a time when I was watching the "Sound of Music". There was a scene of the nuns praying; at which point a young girl, next to me, asked "what are they doing?" My answer was that they were praying. Without a second lost, her next question was - "praying for husbands?"

The Ox Arrives

2009-01-26T04:41:00.000-08:00

No practice today as it is the start of the Chinese New Year, which ushers in the year of the Ox. Today also happened to be on a moon day. Well, of course, since the Chinese calendar is based on lunar cycles.

Ashtangis generally observe moon days as yoga rest days. For those curious to know why, click on this link. There is also a timetable listing of moon days in the ashtanga.com website.

Anyway, Chinese new year celebrations (a 15 day event) is usually a reunion of family members, who for most parts of the year are away for work or studies. There is generally a feast on the eve. On the new year, there are the customary offering of tea to parents, grandparents, etc followed by exchange of red packets with token monies in them. In the old days, firecrackers are a norm but it is now illegal, in Malaysia anyway.

There are all sorts of customs to be observed - amongst these are - new clothes are to be worn and there should be no sweeping of floors during the first day.

As is usual with the start of the new year, people tend to look to their horoscope to see what the year holds for them. The ox is one of the 12 Zodiac animals, which forms part of the 12 year cycle. The Chinese Zodiac is said to follow the stations of Jupiter's orbit around the sun, which is just shy of 12 years. Some also believes the animal can influence events through the year.

For me, I don't spend a lot of time on horoscope. I was, however, brought to ponder about it 2 weeks ago when I had lunch with an ex-colleague. He happened to be the president of Feng Shui Association (or so, I'm told). Out of the blue, he mentioned he looked into my birth date and apparently, this year will be difficult for me, with health problems and so on. Yikes! I was born in the year of the sheep. So, I'm not sure if this applies to all sheep or just me. I didn't know what to make of it so I didn't ask much about what it meant. But, I guess at the age of 42 this year, it's probably a good time to do a full medical check up.

Practice Notes

2009-01-20T00:39:00.000-08:00

Nothing much to blog about except that I'm quietly enjoying my practice - not trying too hard to achieve anything, but just enjoying the movements and breaths within the confines of my mat.

I managed to bind (with help of course) on both sides of Marichyasana D last Sunday. The last two mornings I was tempted to move past Marichyasana D this morning during my self practice. But for the time being, I think I'll stop there until I can bind by myself.

That said, I've moved past that in led classes. In fact last Sunday's led class comprised primary up to Navasana and then the first few poses of second - up to Kapotasana! I don't even know if that is the right spelling - well, Kapo it is for now. Those second series poses take so much out of me!! But, amazingly, the backbends during finishing sequence felt comfortable. My usual "machine gun" breaths during the backbends was replaced by normal sounding breaths and I could even play around with shifting weight between my hands and feet.

Tiring though it is, I can see benefits in doing those first few poses of second series. Someone mentioned doing those poses is very energising. I'm probably a long way from being there as 3 hours after the class, my energy level went flat and I was dead to the world. Lucky the class was on a Sunday!

Pork Chops Or Cubs?

2009-01-15T01:33:00.001-08:00

Just received this email today, which I thought is quite apt as a follow up post to my previous one :

In a zoo in California , a mother tiger gave birth to a rare set of triplet tiger cubs. Unfortunately,due to complications in the pregnancy, the cubs were born prematurely and due to their tiny size, they died shortly after birth

The mother tiger after recovering from the delivery, suddenly started to decline in health, although physically she was fine. The veterinarians felt that the loss of her litter had caused the tigress to fall into a depression. The doctors decided that if the tigress could surrogate another mother's cubs, perhaps she would improve.

After checking with many other zoos across the country, the depressing news was that there were no tiger cubs of the right age to introduce to the mourning mother. The veterinarians decided to try something that had never been tried in a zoo environment. Sometimes a mother of one species will take on the care of a different species.The only 'orphans' that could be found quickly, were a litter of weanling pigs. The zookeepers and vets wrapped the piglets in tiger skin and placed the babies around the mother tiger.Would they become cubs or pork chops??
Take a look...

Now, please tell me one more time ........?
Why can't the rest of the world get along??

P/S
I thought dressing the piglets up in tiger skin would be a bit disturbing ...

Intentions

2009-01-11T21:50:00.000-08:00

One of the many invaluable things my teacher in KL tried to stressed on us students was to always have an intention or intentions for our practice. It could be a dedication or a prayer which can be done just before practice starts or after it ends.

The violence that is happening in the Gaza Strip has recently been highlighted in the media. It is distressing to see pictures of victims and the anguish it caused to the families affected. So, how about we all set an intention or prayer for peace to come quickly for these people the next time we practice?

Futsal And Yoga?

2009-01-07T00:54:00.000-08:00

Was wondering whether to get up early this morning. So far, I've had a led class on Sunday and did self practice on Monday and Tuesday. That's three days in a row! So, I decided to give this 41 year old body a rest. Besides, I have futsal planned for this evening.

Ya ya I know - playing futsal makes my hamstrings tight and slow down my progress in flexibility. Still, playing football was my first love. And first love is hard to let go. It's a different kind of love to yoga. I don't think the spirit of ahimsa is quite there when playing football.

I do think yoga and football can complement each other. I know of footballers who were state players going through meditation program and they reported an improved focus and performance during their matches. If only I knew this during my school days ...

I like to think playing football does have its benefits in yoga. Maybe it helps with the breathing?

Whatever. Football is fun and we can all use a bit of that.

First Practice Of The Year

2009-01-03T23:45:00.000-08:00

Had the first practice in 2009 today, which was led primary at the studio I go to in KL. Felt nice to be back - I haven't been to the studio for 3 weeks. There were lots of hellos and happy new years amongst the practitioners who go there. Even the studio had a new feel to it, with newly painted walls and the absence of mirrors.

Took it easy as I have not practice for 2 weeks. As expected, Marichyasana D's progress took a step back, especially on the left side. Surprisingly, the Pasaritas were not affected. Anyway, it felt great to be on the mat again and to see all the familiar faces. Also, great to see my teacher, Manoj, looking fresh from his holiday in India.

Thinking of starting a daily practice this year. Will see how this pans out.

Yes Man

2009-01-02T20:33:00.000-08:00

A new start to the year - usually a time to reflect on the past and make resolutions for a better future. Watched "Yes Man" over the Christmas period, which gave me the idea for this year's resolution - Don't Shy Away From New Challenges.

For a creature of habit like me, the resolution itself will be a challenge. Anyway, here's to a new year and new adventures!

Thanks For The Inspiration, Mysore!

2008-11-10T07:15:00.000-08:00

Since I've been back from Mysore, I felt I have carried back a bit of its magic with me. I'm managing to practice on my own - which is great for the days I can't make it to the yoga studio. The last class I went to, I'm binding in Marichyasana D on BOTH sides (with help, of course).

The trip to Mysore has certainly inspired me. Practicing in the shala, one could feel a certain energy that is quite special. The Jois family, the students there, all add to my inspiration. Also, reading about the blogs of other people's practice, their dedication is also very inspiring.

So, I like to share a Malay song from Malaysia with you all. It's called "Kau Ilham Ku" (which is translated as "You Are My Inspiration")

Translation -
Thousands of stars in the sky now disappear
Leaving the darkness to caress me
The drifting moon now starts to fade
My inspiration vanishes and leaves me lost
A flash of your face appears in this silence
A flicker of ray appears
Is it merely a star or a ray of moonlight
And I express my gratitude
Allow me to steal a shadow of your face
Allow me to steal a dream with you
Forgive me ...oooo....
If this song disrupts your life
Your smile ...oooo.....
Is a figment of my memory within this arena
You are my inspiration
You are my inspiration

Allow me to steal a shadow of your face
Allow me to steal a dream with you
Forgive me ...oooo....
If this song disrupts your life
Your smile ...oooo.....
Is a figment of my memory within this arena
You are my inspiration
Allow me to steal a shadow of your face
You are my inspiration
You are my inspiration
Allow me to steal a dream with you
You are my inspiration
You are my inspiration
Allow me to steal a shadow of your face
You are my inspiration
You are my inspiration
Allow me to steal a dream with you
You are my inspiration

Credits to Youtube users Adeputera and Greenie85

Friday's Led Primary - 7 Nov

2008-11-07T17:03:00.000-08:00

Although the rain has started coming these few days, Kuala Lumpur is still hot. In fact, with the rain, the humidity increased. So, led class yesterday was like doing ashtanga in a sauna.

I must have won the prize as the sweat king in the studio. The positive thing from all this heat is Manoj managing to bind me in Marichyasana D on my left side! This is the side that was so far away from binding just a few weeks ago. I am stoked! Binding on this side has never happened before. Practice, practice and all will be coming. I was so tempted to stay for 10 breaths. However, the moment I thought that, my right elbow has slipped from my left knee.

I know I should be practicing detachment from this breakthrough, but I can't wait for class tomorrow!

Upward Plank

2008-11-01T20:55:00.000-07:00

I noticed in my earlier video upload that I was rushing through my upward dog. It kind of looked like a plank with my neck arched back. So I wanted to see how it would look if I took a longer inhale during upward dog.

Ok. It looked a bit different but that was a looong inhale (for me). Not sure if I could keep that up during normal practice though.

Hot and Humid in Kuala Lumpur

2008-10-29T07:45:00.000-07:00

These past few days in Kuala Lumpur have been HOT! With its humidity, practicing this morning was like practicing in a sauna. By the end of the third sun salutation A, sweat puddles were forming where my palms meet the mat. It is fortunate indeed for the yoga community in Kuala Lumpur that I was practicing by myself. There was real fear that if I did not use a cotton rug over my mat, my palms will slip from under me and my face will be flattened (some would speculate improved).

Anyway I was prepared for an easy practice, it being the first day after a moon day. However, with the heat, I found I was going quite deep (for my standards). Marichyasana D is coming along. I could bend my left arm around my right knee and the right hand could find my left thigh (or maybe it was the left side of my shorts). Left side is still faraway but my right arm could bend a bit and can reach my left foot so that's encouraging.

At this stage of my practice, I'm also trying to focus on my back bends. Normally I would just do 3 back bends. These days I'm adding one more after taking a breather. For this last one I would try to walk the hands in. Haven't succeeded yet. All I managed was to lift my hands a centimeter off the mat and come back down.

By the way, is the dristhi for upward dog the nose tip or the third eye space? I was searching Yoga Mala but could not find the answer.

Making Patanjali Palatable

2008-10-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

That's the title of the book, launched by my teacher last Sunday. Manoj has always said yoga is more than asanas and is constantly making an effort to make us students more in touch with the yoga sutras. I've attended his workshop on the sutras once. Although I enjoyed it, laziness has now erased what knowledge I learned then. Sorry, Manoj!! Now, with this new book there can be no excuses...

I've also noticed, at the back of the book, endorsements from Lino Miele and Richard Rosen (editor of Yoga Journal)! Wow. How cool is that?! (Sorry - I'm easily impressed by famous names.)

Testing Video Upload

2008-10-18T05:15:00.000-07:00

Sorry. Just got to try uploading a video - to make the blogging experience complete. Also chance for me to see myself in action. Haha - now I can see how stiff I am - my version of upward dog is basically a plank with my head tilted back!

Moving Around In Mysore

2008-09-29T05:32:00.000-07:00

This is what I used to get around Mysore -

Some yoga students who are staying for a longer duration, rent scooters or bicycles. It looks a lot of fun -

But look out for wildlife on the roads ...

Mysore Class - 21 Sept

2008-09-21T23:35:00.000-07:00

Went to a Mysore class at the yoga studio I go to in Malaysia. Someone complimented me on my breathing after class was over. Wahoo! I take what I can get. Though, I'm not sure whether it was because I was focusing on deep breathes to stretch the muscle that was bothering me in the ribs or whether my breathing has improved because of the regular practice in Mysore. But, hey - for a stiff guy, any compliment you will take.

Manoj (my teacher) managed to bind me quite comfortably in Marichyasana D on the right side. I'm still working on the left side. It's coming. Patience, patience. I think my back bend has improved - I'm not so exhausted after the 3 back bends. Again, I could be just stronger from the regular practice. Feels great to be back and had an enjoyable practice.

Memories of Mysore are still fresh in my mind, which is good. They will help me with my self practice.

My First Practice After Mysore - 18 Sept

2008-09-18T03:17:00.000-07:00

It's been 5 days since my last practice in Mysore. So I unrolled my mat for a rare self practice at home. I felt lethargic so I decided to focus on deep slow breathes, rather than getting deep. Besides Malaysia is a lot more humid and hotter than Mysore. As I was doing sun salutations A, I wondered whether I should do 3 instead of 5. I decided to do what I did in Mysore - which is 5 sun A and 3 sun B.

Throughout my practice, I kept the memory of Mysore in my mind. That had somehow helped me get through my practice. In fact, I felt more energy in the middle of my practice and managed to get quite deep in the asanas. I still can't bind in Marichyasana D but I feel I'm progressing in the right direction. Practice, practice and all is coming!

And I still remember Sharath's conference - you do what you can in this lifetime, and continue what you don't finish in your next lifetimes. Also, he mentioned Santosha - be happy and content with what you have (in material things and in other things, such as luxury of time to practice and your own physical limits).

With that, I think I've brought back something from Mysore that I can use anytime.

Last Practice in Mysore - 13 Sept

2008-09-12T23:37:00.000-07:00

Today is my last day in Mysore and I had a great led class with Saraswathi. Practice was good - my ribs did not bother me too much. Because it was a led class, I didn't focus on slow breathes, instead I focused on Saraswathi's count. Well, thank goodness, her count was not slow or I would have passed out in Uth Pluthi.

It's has been special coming here to practice. At the same time, I'm looking forward to heading back to Malaysia, and taking back a bit of Mysore with me.

Practice - 12 Sept

2008-09-12T03:03:00.000-07:00

Today, when I started, I did not expect anything but just focused on deep breaths and extending my ribs. Somehow or other, when I got to the sitting asanas, I felt much more energy than yesterday, and the ribs did not bother me too much. When it came to Marichyasana D on the right side, I got more of my fingers to interlocked and Saraswathi could even let go of me! Wow, when I least expect it. The left side was also better - I could get the right elbow round the left knee. Saraswathi even asked me to try it again. Still could not touch the fingers - but much improvement from yesterday! Celebrated afterwards with breakfast at Santosha.

One more practice, which is a led class tomorrow. Then it's back to Malaysia. I had an absolutely great time and experience here. But I feel ready and looking forward to going back to Malaysia. Hopefully, I'll bring home new and productive habits when I get back ...

Practice - 11 Sept

2008-09-11T06:27:00.000-07:00

Whoops - I think I tried too hard on Monday. The tiny muscle pull I felt in my ribs when I tried binding in Marichyasana D on the right side has increased. So today's practice was a bit more cautious and less deep. Still, I felt good as I concentrated more on breathing deeper.

The rest of the day was spent shopping at Sudha's and Rashinkar's, which are close to the shala. They sell great cotton rugs to put over the mats and some nice gifts to take home. Now the mindset has switched to going back on Saturday - which meant shopping for loved ones at home.

Practice - 10 Sept

2008-09-10T01:50:00.000-07:00

I'm getting so comfortable practicing in the shala, that after my headstand, while I was in child's pose, I was thinking of having a Dosa for breakfast. Of course I tried to eliminate the thought. But once it's in, it stayed with me during padmasana and savasana. Needless to say, after practice, I went to the Green Leaf for Dosa.

Got my fingers to lock in Marichyasana D on the left side, of course with Saraswathi's help. We were quite pleased with the right side as she said, "Maybe tomorrow it will bind". Fingers crossed ...

Internet Cafe

2008-09-10T01:33:00.000-07:00

Other than Anu's, I frequent an internet cafe just over 5 minutes walk from the Green hotel. The computers are older and internet speed slower, but hey, at 10 rupees an hour, it's fine with me.

Yesterday, just as I was settling down to my assigned cubicle, there was a power cut. So I leaned back and noticed a boy in the next cubicle looking at me. I smiled back and then sat and waited for the power to come back on. All of a sudden, the boy was standing in front of me, just staring and smiling. Trying to be unfazed, I took out my camera and took a picture of him. Of course the flash brought his friends along as well - which was a relief. There were the usual questions - where I'm from, do I have any Malaysian coins on me, etc. Turned out these kids were from a local secondary school and they use the internet for chatting.

By this time, our friend has positioned himself next to me. Before I know it, I felt a hand on my shoulder. Immediately I stood up and said in my gruffiest voice, "Ok boys. Got to go. See ya!" and left in what I hoped looked like a dignified exit.

Rail Museum - 9 Sept

2008-09-09T02:01:00.000-07:00

The museum is great for kids - has a small playground and a mini railtrack where you can take a ride round. Small museum, with only 5 trains but I enjoyed it.

Santosa Cafe - 9 Sept

2008-09-08T21:57:00.000-07:00

Today I had breakfast at Santosa Cafe, a short walk from the shala. It was GREAT! Operated by Westerners, it serves great western breakfast - organic oatmeal, fresh cookies, even the sugar is organic (well, not the white sugar - I can't give more details). Super. And after that, I was walking around the area and I found Rashinka's Emporium, where they sell cotton rugs. I'm a bit early - the shop is still not opened. But I'll be back. Now that it's my last few days in Mysore - a shopping hunger has started ...

Practice - 9 Sept

2008-09-08T21:44:00.000-07:00

Today as Saraswathi was helping me bind in Marichyasana D on the left side, she remarked "So close. Let's try again". I was so impressed with her efforts that I gave it extra effort. This time, instead of just fingertips touching (ET style), the fingertips can actually pressed and locked against each other. Thank goodness cameras are not allowed in the shala - my expression during the asana would qualify for face contortionist of the year.

The right side is still long way off but the right side of the body has more movement and Saraswathi was pleased. Slowly, slowly - it's coming!

Chamundi Hill - 8 Sept

2008-09-08T01:28:00.000-07:00

The view from the top of Chamundi Hill was fantastic. You can see the whole of Mysore. There are two temples at the top of the hill. Some flowers with a small wooden Ganesh was thrusted into my hands just before I entered the temples. This guy says it was offerings and it was free. Naive that I was, I took the flowers. The guy then took me on a tour of the temple, claiming to be a temple worker. Needless to say, at the end of the tour, in a quiet corner of the temple, he said that the flowers and the wooden statues cost 2,000 rupees (1,000 rupees per temple). Rather than arguing in the temple, I gave in and treated this expense as tuition money on how to handle similar situations in the future.

A Monday Practice - 8 Sept

2008-09-08T01:19:00.000-07:00

Slowly, I'm feeling more comfortable in practicing in this famous shala. I'm spending more time looking at my dristis, than at pictures that are hung around the shala. Today I could not touched my fingers in Marichyasana D on the left side. Well, it's Monday after all. However, when it came to the right side, I was surprised to get more movement from right shoulder to the left knee. It's still a long way off from binding, but it warranted a "very good on this side today" from Saraswathi. That will do for me :)

Sharath's Conference - 7 Sept

2008-09-08T00:59:00.000-07:00

Every Sunday, Sharath has a conference in the shala, where he would sit on the stage in front of the students and give a talk or discuss yoga matters.

It's quite amazing to see all the students (and so many!) literally sit straighter as soon as he walks onto the stage. He came across as very confident and speaks in such a way that he held his audience captive; partly I suspect because he spoke so sincerely.

Today, he talked about choosing the right guru and being committed to a practice. Someone asked whether other types of yoga also lead to the same destination. Sharath's reply was that yoga done with spiritual intent would lead to the right path.

He also touched on Niyama and elaborated a little on diet. As someone who loves food, I kept my head down. Now and then, he would make light jokes. But his messages were quite clear - to follow the path of yoga requires studies or research, commitment, following the right guru, always reflecting on the practice and discipline.

Yikes! I guessed I'm still quite far away. Although he did say, even if one don't get there in this lifetime, there are other lifetimes to catch up. Well, that's something to build on ...

Sunday - 7 Sept

2008-09-06T23:35:00.000-07:00

The autorickshaw stopped beside me just as I was getting hungry and the drizzle had just started. Thinking it's a good time for lunch at the hotel, I agreed to use the ride. Not before some bargaining for I have now been in Mysore a whole week. "How much to Green hotel?" "20 rupees" "Oh, ok"

So much for bargaining. 20 rupees is the cheapest quote I ever had; normally I'm charged between 30 to 40 rupees. "So, this is the true rate", I reflected knowingly when unexpectedly the autorickshaw came to a stop. Curious, I looked out and saw the Green Leaf foodcourt ahead of me. Feeling glad the driver could not read my thoughts, I nonchalantly got out and hand him the 20 rupees. Besides, I had heard of this place but have yet to try its food.

I had a great vegetarian briniani.

Incense Stick Being Made - 6 Sept

2008-09-06T02:56:00.000-07:00

Devaraja Market - 6 Sept

2008-09-06T02:49:00.000-07:00

Celebrated start of weekend by going to this colourful bazaar.

Led Class - 6 Sept

2008-09-06T02:42:00.000-07:00

Saraswathi's count during led class was very even - not fast nor slow and consistent! One thing I noticed was the number of sun salutations B was 3, rather than 5. Saraswathi came over to help when I was wobbling around during the balancing poses. I tried to focus on my dristhis (gazing points) as I feared if our eyes should meet, she would be asking, "why dancing?"

I could at last look around when my part of the asanas is over. The practices of the other students are very inspiring. Maybe one day, I'll reach there.

Friday Practice - 5 Sept

2008-09-04T23:02:00.000-07:00

Today, as I reached the shala just before 8am, I could hear Sharath's voice counting. Sharath was conducting a led class, where he would lead the students through the primary series and count the number of breaths one should take in a particular pose.
When it came to Uth Pluthi, where you lift up with your hands while in lotus, Sharath counted one and stopped counting for a good 30 seconds before he called out "two". Those of us who were watching laughed while the looks of those practicing, well, looked worried! Tomorrow I have a led class, so perhaps I should not laugh too much.

Today's practice was great. Because of the led class, students in Saraswathi's class start at almost the same time. It is nice to now recognise familiar faces, one of whom I'm thankful for as her blog has helped my preparations for this trip. As always, Saraswathi came to help me at the asana I'm stuck at, Marichysana D. It's amazing - this small 67 year old woman doing her best to bind this stiff man. So I also tried my best to get into position. My face must have gone either red from the effort or pale from lack of breathing. So there we are - the both of us trying our best. And when the moment passed, we smiled at each other. That was a great moment to remember.

Back to Practice - 4 Sept

2008-09-04T01:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday shala was closed as it was a festival to celebrate the birth of Ganesh. Some of the practitioners practiced on their own. Me .. I took a day off. Already I've been vegetarian since I arrived (does eating eggs count as being vegetarian?).

Back to practice at 8.45am. I was slightly early but was slightly taken aback that Sharath was still there. He told me to come in. And I heard Saraswathi called out, "tomorrow you come at 8am". I'm assuming she's talking to me; otherwise it shall be interesting tomorrow.

Finally beginning to feel more settled. Was stopped at Marichysana D but this time Saraswathi got me to touch my fingers on my left side. Yahoo! The right side is still quite far away. But mini breakthrough is good.

Had lunch at Om Shanti. Very nice thali. After lunch, a student ask me to fill up a survey. Soon as I say yes, four other students came over with their own surveys. I think I spent 20 minutes, finishing up their surveys. Hey, got to give them a good impression of Malaysians, right?

Mysore Palace - 2 Sept

2008-09-02T22:02:00.000-07:00

The palace is situated in the heart of the city. Unfortunately, one can't take cameras into the palace grounds so I only have pictures taken outside.

The palace grounds are huge, around 450 yards each side. The palace is on the left as you walk in through the south gate and on its grounds, you can find 8 different temples.

Inside the palace, are exhibits of European statuettes, lamps from the East, etc. along with paintings and murals of the royal family and Indian history.

My favourite part is the Durbar Hall on the first floor, where you will have a panoramic view of the palace grounds with its fountains and towers of temples.

After the palace, I was walking around the palace lawns when suddenly I became a tourist attraction. A group of boys from Kerala wanted to include me in the picture with them, so I obliged.

Oh, I forgot to mention that you will have to remove your shoes before you enter the palace. Luckily I was wearing a pair of socks with no holes in them. Which reminds me, I need to send my socks to the laundry now.

My 7.30am Practice - 2 Sept

2008-09-01T22:45:00.000-07:00

Today I was allocated an early time as it is the start of a festival. I went early to try and catch glimpses of the advanced practitioners, some of whom had started at 4.45am and had already finished by the time I arrived. There were 2 other people ahead of me in the waiting area. "One more", an authoritative voice rang out. I barely have time to sneak a peek when two "one more" rang out and it's my turn!

It is a whole different scene from yesterday when I went in. It was packed with mats side by side. For today, my class is mixed together with Sharath's students as well. I was told to put my mat at the back. Sandwiched between two practitioners who were in the midst of doing some crazy advanced pose, I quietly put my mat down and promptly went to the changing room to compose myself. Good thing about today was at least in my row there were a few men.

It was hard not to look around. The moment I looked around, I lost count of how many sun salutations I did. Never mind, just focus on the breath. Even then, these practitioners' breath are so loud, they play havoc on me concentrating on counting my own breath. But it was amazing to be practicing in such an atmosphere - in footballing terms, it would be like having a kick-about with Manchester United players at Old Trafford!

Saraswathi was great. The times she came to help or adjust me, she always had a smile. I got up to Mari D (I can't spell it!) before I was told to do the finishing poses. Can't wait for Thursday to start again ...

My First Practice - 1 Sept

2008-09-01T00:40:00.000-07:00

I was 25 minutes early. So I walked around, and found an internet cafe nearby. I will check it out after my practice. I then waited in the waiting area when I was told to start my practice. I instinctively put my mat in the back row and started my practice. Soon more people turned up and it became painfully obvious (I hope it's coincidence) that all the men was practicing in the front row and the row I'm in were all women!

Anyway, too late. I had started to practice. It was hard not to be in awe being in this famous shala. As soon as I thought of this, I put my wrong foot forward in Sun Salutation B. Hoping Saraswathi did not notice I quietly went on as if nothing is wrong. Other than that, practicing with Saraswathi is great. She has such a strong presence that when she says something, you would do your best to follow.

Towards the end of the practice, she told me to start tomorrow at 7.30am. I could barely notice her next message about the shala being closed on Wednesday, being a festival day, for my head was starting to swell up. As if she could sensed that, she then said, "After holiday, you start again at 8.45am". My ego went back to the novice yogi state.

I can now say I've practice in the main shala!!

Mysore, At Last! - 31 Aug

2008-09-01T00:30:00.001-07:00

Finally, I'm in Mysore. The hotel I'm staying in is called the Green Hotel. It has really beautiful gardens and my room looks out onto them!

After quickly settling in, I set off to the shala to register. I was reminded of my university days when we approached the shala - there were pockets of what looks obviously like yoga students standing out amongst the locals. I saw Saraswathi for the first time - she was friendly and also has a strong decisive presence. She led me to a room to register and there was Sharath sitting in the room! So, I quickly said namaste and smiled like an idiot. I hope I don't practice like an idiot tomorrow. I was told to practice the next morning at 8.45am.

Shatabdi Express - 31 Aug

2008-09-01T00:17:00.000-07:00

The Shatabdi Express would take 2 hours from Bangalore to Mysore. To pay 300 rupees for a normal coach or 600 rupees for an executive coach? After last night I decided to treat myself to the executive coach. Boy, was I glad to have chosen the executive for it came with soup and lunch served to your seat. I had not had anything to eat since last night - so I polished every bit of scrap on my tray.

Expect the Unexpected - 30 Aug

2008-08-31T23:39:00.000-07:00

Landed in what looks like new airport in Bangalore just before midnight. I had the option of a 4 hour taxi ride to Mysore or spend the night in Bangalore and then take the train to Mysore the next day. I choose the latter.

Initially I had booked the hotel through a hotel search engine. However, it turned out to be an adventure finding the hotel. Went through empty streets flanked by 1 storey shops. It was quite bizarre - although the streets was empty, we would come across small groups of people walking or talking in a huddle every few blocks. Almost like a scene off the Twilight Zone.

We finally found the hotel in a quiet section of the city, after calling for directions no less than 4 times. Turned out my internet booking was no use as the guy at the reception just looked at my booking slip blankly ( I had a feeling he would rather continue with his sleep). I looked around and saw no signs of a computer in the vicinity. Luckily he had a spare room after I agreed to pay the rate listed in his brochure.

I woke up early the next morning, partly because I became concerned when I asked whether it's easy to get to the train station and all I got was a good night wish and a head wobble. There were still no signs of other guests when I checked out. The hotel looked great, though. I'm pretty sure if I had checked in at a reasonable time, I would have a better impression.

One More Day!

2008-08-29T01:32:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the day I finally leave for India. Panic has already sown their seeds. "What else can you tell me about Mysore?" I questioned my wife again and again. Any macho image that I have left has surely left me by now. Someone else teased me - "Isn't going for yoga trip a very gay thing to do?". And this is from a gay guy. Now, paranoia is starting to sow its seeds ...

Indeed, I have gone through many mental checklists of what to bring. I even caught up with my best buddy for lunch just now. I'm only going for 2 weeks! Still, the fact that I can't find my backpack doesn't bode well. The past week, I've been reading up on Mysore blogs. I have now a clearer idea on what I'm going into. Unfortunately, questions like the following has also emerged - what is this novice doing, mixing together with seasoned yogis?

I better start packing - time to pack the doubts away, time to look forward to meet the source of ashtanga yoga and to a new adventure ...

One Week to My First Mysore Trip

2008-08-23T02:03:00.000-07:00

One week to go! It's finally dawning on me that I'll soon have to leave my comfort zone and see how I cope with 2 weeks as a yoga student in Mysore.

Why Mysore? To get an opportunity to see the man who started this system of yoga called Ashtanga Yoga. (See www.kpjayi.org ) Shri K. Pattabhi Jois is now 93 years old and apparently still teaching. Though I'm not learning from him, I'm going to spend 2 weeks learning from his daughter, Saraswathi.

My existing yoga practice comprise 3 times a week at classes that are scheduled either around 8 in the morning or in the evening around 6. This trip to Mysore will mean a daily practice (albeit for only 2 weeks) and will start at 7.30am. My intention is to try the yoga student life and this meant also being vegetarian. Two weeks should be fine, right? As the time draws nearer, panic and doubts are starting to sow their seeds.

This is also my first attempt at blogging. Ha ha. It's one of many firsts. Hopefully this will be a transformative event ....