Kino

As many of you know, we spent last Friday in Chi town at Moksha Yoga studio. The guest of honor, Mrs. Hot Shorts herself, Kino MacGregor. As promised, a photo...

...isn't she super cute???

The morning started off with a Mysore class. Thankfully, one of the instructors from Moksha who was there thought to crank the heat up. It was a wonderfully warm, juicy practice. We played it conservative and did the Primary Series. It seemed there were a lot of people on the other side of the coin, just going for Intermediate. Hmmmmmm.

In the afternoon, we returned for an adjustments workshop which was really wonderful. If you haven't figured it out yet, Kino is tiny. Easily under 100 pounds. Despite her small stature, she's super strong and a great adjuster. She talked us through several adjustments for the first half of the primary series and demonstrated how the postures weave back and forth preparing the body for Kurmasana and Supta Kurmasana.

We found Kino to be smart, straight-forward and a little sassy. Just our style. She'll be back at Moksha in October and in Minneapolis in May. If you ever get the chance, check this chica out!

Mysore Success

Today, I couldn't be happier :) In only it's second week up and running, Tapas Yoga Shala saw it's first successful Mysore style class. Brian, Jill and Evan spent a bit of the afternoon here practicing the Primary Series. I was envious to be in the room only watching but it was great!

A Mysore class is different than any other type you've been to. It is, of course, an Ashtanga yoga practice but one that is appropriate for all levels- even beginners! Mats are rolled out cotton rugs on call, and we all start at the top of the mat with the Opening Chant. After OM, it's off to the races, everyone moving through the Primary Series (or as much as they know) at their own pace. A teacher (that's me) eagerly waits for the chance to help when the next pose escapes you or when an adjustment is needed.

I have found this style a highly effective way of learning the series, putting what you know to the test but reassured there is someone there when you need help. It's also a building block for developing a regular, home practice. A must for those who wish to reap the benefits Ashtanga yoga has to offer.

If you have the time, check it out. There's nothing to fear!!!
Thursdays, 1:00pm shala time