A Message From Tracy Von Kaenel

Copyrighting Yoga

2011-12-12T09:52:00.002-06:00

I have always thought that Yoga should be available to everyone, and that the privatizing of a particular style or technique was like privatizing the air we breathe. It just doesn't make sense. Seems that the U.S. Justice system agrees. Yoga on everyone!

Yoga Pose Copyright Bid Too Much of a Stretch, U.S. Says in Bikram Battle

By Ellen Rosen - Dec 10, 2011 12:39 AM CT Sat Dec 10 06:39:37 GMT 2011

Yoga poses such as head-to-knee stretches and the sequences of the moves are “exercises” rather than “choreography” and can’t be copyrighted in the U.S., regulators said.

The U.S. Copyright Office previously permitted yoga poses and their sequences to be registered, even if those exercises were in the public domain, Laura Lee Fischer, acting chief of the office’s Performing Arts Division, said in response to an inquiry by an attorney involved in lawsuits the founder of Bikram Yoga filed against three yoga studios.

The office reviewed the legislative history of the copyright law and decided that exercises, including yoga, “do not constitute the subject matter that Congress intended to protect as choreography,” Fischer said in an e-mail. “We will not register such exercises (including yoga movements), whether described as exercises or as selection and ordering of movements.”

The e-mail is contained in a response filed yesterday to Bikram’s Yoga College of India’s complaint against New York- based Yoga to the People. Washington lawyer Elliott Alderman, assisting defense attorney Jordan Susman and Harvard Law School professor William Fisher, sought the determination from the Copyright Office.

Evolation Yoga, with studios in cities including Buffalo and Brooklyn, New York, and Yen Yoga, in Traverse City, Michigan, also were sued. All three lawsuits were filed in federal court in Los Angeles.

Validity Presumption

Robert Gilchrest, a lawyer at Silverman Sclar Shin & Byrne PLLC in Los Angeles who represents Bikram Yoga and its founder, Bikram Choudhury, said the e-mail shouldn’t affect his case because Choudhury already had registered a copyright for a book containing his yoga sequence.

“There is a presumption that when a copyright is issued, it is valid,” Gilchrest said. He said the Copyright Office has issued “hundreds of copyrights for exercise videos, but now they’re saying they’re looking at it again and they’ve changed their mind? It is meaningless to this litigation.”

The Copyright Office decision won’t put an end to the litigation because the suits also claim trademark infringement and violation of the teacher-certification agreements.

Breathing Exercises

Choudhury and his affiliated Bikram Yoga studios teach a strictly regimented type of yoga that lasts for 90 minutes and includes 26 poses, two breathing exercises and a scripted dialogue in a room that is heated to 105 degrees. Yoga to the People founder Greg Gumucio was a former student of Choudhury, as were some of the instructors at Evolation and Yen Yoga.

Choudhury said in his complaint that each studio violated his copyrights and trademarks as well as limitations on how and where his students can teach his method.

Susman and Fisher, who represent Yoga to the People and Gumucio, said yoga sequences and poses can’t be copyrighted. The defendants said the hot yoga they offer differs from Bikram yoga. Each studio offers other types of yoga as well.

Gumucio created a website, www.yogatruth.org, and has almost 8,000 signatures of people who agree yoga shouldn’t “be privatized.”

The case is Bikram’s Yoga College of India L.P. v. Yoga to the People, Inc., 11-cv-07998, U.S. District Court, Central District of California (Los Angeles). The other cases filed are Bikram’s Yoga College of India L.P. v. Raiz, 11-cv-7377, U.S. District Court, Central District of California (Los Angeles) and Bikram’s Yoga College of India L.P. v. Evolation Yoga LLC., 11- cv-05506, U.S. District Court, Central District of California

Holiday Class Schedule and Specials

2011-11-14T12:07:00.003-06:00

It's that time of year again. Snowy weather, family and friends gathering, lots of extra activities, lots of potential for stress. But with a solid yoga practice foundation to help you through it all, it can be a lovely time for reflection and joy. Here's the list of classes at the Tai Chi Center from Thanksgiving through New Years. Hope to see you often. Wishing you a season of peace.

Weds. Nov. 23rd...Pre-Thanksgiving "Raise your Metabolism Yoga", 6:00pm

Monday Nov. 28th...Aerial Yoga (final class of session), 7:40pm

Tuesday Nov. 29th...Beginning Yoga, 6:00pm

Wednesday Nov.30...Intermediate Yoga, 6:00pm

Monday Dec. 5th...Candlelight Yin Yoga, 7:45pm

Tuesday Dec. 6th...Beginning Yoga, 6:00pm

Wednesday Dec. 7th...Intermediate Yoga, 6:00pm

Monday Dec. 12th...Candlelight Yin Yoga with Guided Meditation, 7:45pm

Tuesday Dec. 13th...Beginning Yoga, 6:00pm

Wednesday Dec. 14th ...Intermediate Yoga, 6:00pm

Monday Dec. 19th...Candlelight Yin Yoga with Gong Bath, 7:45pm

Tuesday Dec. 20th...Beginning Yoga, 6:00pm

Wednesday December 21st...Intermediate Yoga, 6:00pm

Monday December 26th....NO CLASS

Tuesday December 27th...Beginning Yoga, 6:00pm (bring a friend for $8!)

Weds. December 28th...Intermediate Yoga, 6:00pm (bring a friend for $8!)

Monday January 2nd...NO CLASS

2011-09-28T22:41:00.003-05:00

October 1st is World Vegetarian Day

I encourage everyone to be veggie for one day and then perhaps challenge yourself to be more veggie aware for the entire month. As yogis, many of us practice vegetarianism because of the first Yama (Ethical Codes) which is Ahimsa. Ahimsa dictates non-violence in every form, (thoughts, words, actions) towards all sentient beings. But there is much controversy on the "need" for meat. Here is an article from Yoga Journal that discusses this very thought.

The Great Meat Debate

The debate over whether or not vegetarianism is an intrinsic part of the yogic lifestyle is not new. For centuries in India the movement towards peaceful coexistence with animals, influenced by the belief in reincarnation, conflicted with the tradition of animal sacrifice set forth in the Vedas. This debate perhaps even contributed to the branching out of Vedic thought into the peaceful philosophies of Buddhism and Jainism. In current times the complicated questions remain. This Friday, October 1, is World Vegetarian Day and the beginning of Vegetarian Awareness Month. Make a commitment this month to learn more about the health benefits, animal welfare issues, and resource conservation of a vegetarian diet, so that you too can contribute to the ancient debate!

Examine the health benefits of a plant-based diet and ensure that you are getting the necessary nutrients if you are a vegetarian. Do some research and find out why a vegetarian diet is a yogic one. Find out what experts have to say. Finally, omnivores and vegetarians alike can make a difference in the way their food gets to the table. Be a conscientious eater whatever your personal decision is. We can all benefit from being smart, mindful, compassionate consumers.

Aerial Yoga Classes Begin

2011-06-01T16:39:00.009-05:00

Aerial Yoga is completely different from any yoga you have ever tried. It does not replace a regular yoga practice, but rather compliments it. Inversions become gravity free, allowing the neck, shoulders, arms to relax while giving the full benefit of inverting.

The upper body muscles develop strength with Aerial Yoga, which is an area most of us are challenged by. And stretching takes on a new feeling when suspended.

The element of fun is evident from the first time you get in the sling and swing....just try to resist the temptation to sat "weeeeee". And the Savasana is like nothing you can even imagine....some have described it as pure bliss.

I would love for everyone to try it, because I think you will love it! Especially if you enjoy being upside-down!

The class will be offered in 6 week sessions for 5 students at a time. This will give you a full immersion feeling with a great amount of personal attention from me! Here's the schedule for the sessions. Classes meet at 7:40pm Monday nights at the Tai Chi Center of Chicago, 4043 N Ravenswood, Suite 228. The cost is $150 for a six week session. Secure your spot now with a check!

All sessions for Aerial Yoga in 2011 are full. The 2012 session is as follows:

Aerial Yoga 6-week sessions 2012

Session I- January 9th-February 13^th (FULL)

Session II-February 27th-April 2nd (FULL)

Session III-April 9th-May 14th (FULL)

Session IV-May 21st-July 2nd (No class May 28/Memorial Day)

Session V-July 9th-August 13th

Session VI-August 20-October 1st (No class September 3/Labor Day)

Session VII-October 8th-November 12th

Session VIII-November 19-December 17th (5-week session/$125)

Come fly with me to a place of peace.....

Happy Earth Day 2011

2011-04-21T08:49:00.002-05:00

Earth Day is Friday April 22!

How will you show your support to save the Earth?

Think simple.   If each of us does one small thing to help the environment this Earth Day, the world will be a much better place. Here are a few small ways that you can help make the world a better place to live in—and sustain it for future generations:

Give up bottled water. This is likely no news flash for you, but let's review: According to the Sierra Club, 1.5 million barrels of oil are used to make plastic water bottles every year in the United States. Bottled water has a huge carbon footprint--it's bottled at one location in small plastic bottles that were made at another location and shipped long distances. Many plastic water bottles are recycled, but most are not, making the footprint even bigger. Get yourself a reusable water bottle. Also, a lot of restaurants have made the switch from offering fancy bottled water, usually imported from an exotic source, to using in-house filtration systems that make tap water a good choice. Ask about it next time you dine out.

Practice your yoga in organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo clothing. The production of non-organic cotton is responsible for 25 percent of the United States' insecticide usage. Think of this for all your clothing, bedding, towels etc. And as long as you are shopping, think of buying something that doesn’t take new production…try consignment stores, thrift stores etc.

Exchange your PVC mat for an eco-mat. And make sure you re- use your old mat. Cut it up for shelf lining (especially good for shoes), extra padding on a hard chair, pads under the feet of furniture to save the floor. Glue pieces to the back of wall art to keep marks off your wall. Cut small it makes great re-usable packaging for fragile items. Cut pretty shapes out of it and use it for a bath mat. Be creative…. the possibilities are endless. Check out Bean Products for some great eco-friendly, locally made stuff. www.beanproducts.com

Be Green and Clean. Opt for an eco-friendly cleaning solution made of lemon juice, vinegar, and essential oils—instead of cleaners with harsh chemicals. This can make a difference in the environment and in your health. Use washable plates and glasses for events rather than disposable ones; and use hand towels, which can be washed and reused, rather than paper towels or napkins.

Pay Attention to Packaging. When out shopping, try to go to stores or co-ops that keep packaging to a minimum. For example, buy loose tomatoes rather than boxed or plastic-wrapped tomatoes. Also, avoid items, like cereals and crackers, that include a non-recyclable bag inside of a box, and you'll also avoid more heavily processed food. Take reusable bags to the grocery store, including reusable produce bags, which can save a countless amount of plastic!

Sign up for Green Power Here is probably the quickest and most effective thing you can do to reduce your carbon emissions: Enroll in a green power program with your utility company. While the exact electricity mix varies from state to state, based on the average mix in the United States, by choosing green power from your utility you can reduce you carbon emission by some 7 tons per year. And at the same time send a message to your utility that it better start investing in some more wind farms, because more and more people are committed to greening the national power supply. Yes, a few minutes and one phone call can reduce your personal carbon emissions seven times as much as recycling.

Skip the flight.  Simply skipping one mid-range flight (say from New York City to St. Louis, Missouri) reduces your emissions as much as one full year of recycling, by about 1970 pounds per flight on that route. If you travel frequently for work, investigate other options such as Amtrak or even video conferencing, and if you have family that live halfway across the country, try to combine smaller trips into one longer one or simply go less frequently.

Unplug it!  Unplug appliances that you don't use frequently. Most electronics have a standby mode that siphons energy even when not in use. Cell phone chargers, laptops, televisions, stereos--there's a whole list of items that should be unplugged when not in use. Try using a power strip for groups of electronic items. One flick of the switch and it's all off.

Buy organic and local.  Local food cuts down on miles and miles of traveling to get to your plate. And it's fresher than what's transported across the globe to your mega mart. Supermarket produce is often picked a week before it's ripe, and has to do its final ripening in transport. This also goes for that cup of joe--coffee beans have to travel long distances and go through a complicated production process before they even make it to your local coffee shop. Also, try eating at restaurants that serve locally produced or seasonal foods.

Go Vegetarian (or Vegan) Cutting meat out of your diet has a large impact on your lifestyle carbon emissions. And can lower your food bill by 20 percent to boot! The emissions and resources needed to raise animals for food are so much higher than for raising vegetables that by eating a lacto-ovo vegetarian diet you can save about one ton of carbon emissions each year compared to your carnivorous friends. Cut out eggs and cheese and save two tons per year. And by doing this you’ll also be practicing Ahimsa (non-violence), a basic tenet of Yoga…

Keep your car. What? How can keeping your car reduce carbon? Well, first try more eco-friendly modes of transport when possible, like buses, trains, a bicycle, telecommuting, or walking. But, with gas prices seemingly always on the rise, it's tempting to buy a hybrid or electric vehicle. However, if your older-model car is in good condition, you're better off keeping it in good running condition. Even hybrids create a big footprint when they're built, so consider driving that old clunker for a little while longer.

Use cold water.  No, not in the shower... but maybe in the washer. Try using cold water to launder things that don't need to be cleaned in hot or warm water. It takes a lot of energy to heat up water -- multiply that by the number of loads, and that's a big footprint. Most major detergent makers sell detergents designed to have the same cleaning power as with regular soap. Try washing mixed loads in cold water, too.

Plant a tree in the rainforest. And finally this, from the National Recourses Defense Council. I’m inviting you to join thousands of others in planting a tree in a rainforest. It’s inexpensive ($10). It’s fast (a couple of mouse clicks). And it makes a big difference to our planet. (Each new tree can absorb up to a ton of carbon pollution in its lifetime.)   Thanks to NRDC’s GreenGifts program, you can even plant the tree in someone’s name -- and we’ll send them an e-card letting them know about your Earth Day action. (You can write your own message on the card.) With GreenGifts, there are no more excuses for letting Earth Day pass without doing something small but important for Mother Earth.   Plant a tree today - and breathe easier on Earth Day. NRDC - Frances Beinecke biogemsdefenders@savebiogems.org

So whatever you do know that you are doing good. Share your knowledge, your energy and your spirit to help save this beautiful earth. There has never been a more important time than the present moment.

Peace, and Happy Earth Day!!

Namaste,

Tracy

www.yogachicago.us

773-720-YOGA

Aerial Yoga comes to the Tai Chi Center

2011-02-09T22:25:00.004-06:00

Ever wonder what it feels like to defy gravity? To float just above the ground as you expand into your yoga pose? Well now you can find out! The studio has been rigged, and the sling has been purchased so that you can experience Aerial Yoga! With over 20 years of yoga experience and 5 years of aerial experience I'm excited to blend these two very different but equally awesome mediums. I'll be offering lessons on a private and small group basis first, and if there's enough interest, I'll purchase more slings and offer it as a class.

To get you started I'm offering special introductory rates through May of 2011.

One Private Lesson: $65
Two Private Lessons: $110
Three Private Lessons: $155 (your best bargain and recommended amount to get a true feel for the sling)

Small Group Private Rate:

Two students: $40 per person per session
Three students: $30 per person per session

Call or email me to set up your personal aerial yoga sessions! Branch out and try something new in a safe, comfortable, personalized session.

773-720-YOGA or www.yogachicago.us

Live In Joy

2011-02-08T11:21:00.003-06:00

Live in Joy, in Love, even among those who hate. Live in Joy, in Health, even among the afflicted. Live in Joy, in Peace, even among the troubled. Look within. Be still. Live free from fear and attachment and know the sweet joy of the way. Buddha

Monthly Closing

2011-01-12T21:25:00.003-06:00

Many people have asked for the closing statements that I use in class to be posted so they can copy them. Here is this months...

With every breath I take today...I vow to be awake. And with every step I take today...I vow to take with an open heart. So that I may see with eyes of love into the hearts of all I meet. To ease their burden when I can....and to touch them with a smile of peace.

Author Unknown.

Holiday Schedule 2010

2010-12-02T10:30:00.003-06:00

Amazingly enough the holiday season is upon us once again. I am happy to report that none of the holidays occur on any regular class times....so there will be no cancellations. So take advantage of this time when the stress levels can rise, to return home to your practice and to the solace that it brings. There is no better time than the present to be at one with yourself so that you can freely share your spirit with others.

Whatever this season brings for you I hope it is filled with much love, light and laughter. All of which we can find within ourselves.

Namaste,

Tracy

Balancing an Unbalanced Body, Mind and Soul

2010-09-22T13:21:00.003-05:00

I was a few minutes late and the door was closed and people were all kinds of posed, lights low and I just figured it was terrible manners to walk in on a calm atmosphere like that all loud & late (since I am no delicate butterfly when I enter a room)... Defeated I turned around headed back down the hall and ran smack dab into a pregnant woman all geared up in YOGA wear

"Oh hi --are you in the YOGA class?"

"Yes I am"

"Did it start already? I don't want to be rude"

"No I just think people are getting situated its ok to go in"

"Well its my first time here I was unsure what to expect"

"Mine too" she says and we exchanged pleasantries and I followed her lead as we entered the room

It was spectacular...had I not lived in Chicago myself I would have never felt we were in the middle of the city (ok except that the train came by quite a few times..lol) It was a huge lofted old warehouse space..hardwood floors, exposed brick walls, cool lighting and stairs leading to an outside terrace adorned with flowers and all sorts of zen.

I didn't know what to expect as I took my place on the floor next to an older woman who didn't so much as smile at me. I was happy when the instructor welcomed all the "new faces" and some of the regulars clapped as the class began. At first I loathed the bodies around me. These women had long, lean amazing, amazing bodies and then it hit me...I WANT to be in a YOGA class with women who look like this...they are a very good example of what the outcome may be if I stick with it.

I "centered" myself, but struggled to keep my eyes closed at first and be one with my breathing. But then the stretching, and tree poses, my cat and dog and downward dog felt amazing, my sun pose was spectacular and my body started to quiver as I stood on one leg and tried to balance a body so totally and completely foreign to trying to center itself to anything or be one with any sort of calm or balance in its life.

I did get really into it though.

I loved the instructor and her soothing voice, I loved the atmosphere, the people grew on me when I realized we were all in the same boat, I was happy with my cute little YOGA outfit and secretly prayed to God to give me a body JUST like the woman in front of me.

After a good stretch in my child's pose and rocking myself side to side....the class was coming to an end. She slowly talked us into being completely flat on our backs, palms upward, arms at a 45* angle at our sides...softly speaking to let us know where we should "be" as she walked around the room shutting off the lights one by one.

When all was silent and the room pitch black I closed my eyes and was completely alone in my own head.

And for the first time in a loooong time I felt calmness come over me, peace in my heart, spirit in my soul and the tears started to fall.....they ever so lightly rolled to the sides of my temples , into my hair releasing the pain I have been fighting inside for so long. I missed this "happy place" I forgot it existed within me, I didn't think I could find it without Doug in my life, I didn't think I had it in me to be "centered" with out someONE as opposed to someTHING making me feel better.

And the tears that come out when there is only pain....tonight brought me peace instead...

Welcome to Fall

2010-09-16T11:03:00.004-05:00

Another summer has come, shared her immense beauty with us, and is now packing her bags. As we enter into the fall season remember that this is a wonderful time to deepen your yoga practice.

The days become shorter, encouraging us to become more introspective. The temperature becomes cooler allowing us to explore our own internal radiant fire with more gusto. The air is crisper and cleaner allowing us to practice our pranayama techniques with new vigor...

Although it is often hard to say goodbye to summer, each season, (yes even winter) brings with it a chance of renewal and excitement. May you find this approaching season filling you with purpose and joy......

"Summer is already better, but the best is autumn.

It is mature, reasonable and serious, it glows

moderately and not frivolously ... It cools down,

clears up, makes you reasonable ...

- Valentin

Oil Spill Got You Down? Don't fret, seize the opportunity —Sheryl Eisenberg

2010-06-16T15:21:00.001-05:00

In 1968, when I learned about the population bomb in biology class, I was overwhelmed. The planet was heading for disaster and there was nothing I could do to stop it. In the 70s, it was nuclear weapons; in the 80s, the ozone hole. This spring, it's the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. But these days I know something I didn't know then. There is always something I/you/we can do.

I don't mean we can erase the disaster that has already occurred. That's oil under the bridge—and if we're unlucky, into the Gulf Stream. What we can do is help prevent recurrence. For recurrence is not only likely but inevitable as long as we allow offshore drilling, depend on oil and, indeed, continue to consume energy as if there were an unlimited supply.

Therefore, this is the time—when we are sick at the thought of the workers killed, sea turtles and other endangered species harmed, fisheries ruined, coastline polluted and coral reefs destroyed—to change our lives.

To begin, we must change our mindset.

We are running on borrowed energy. Oil is just one part of the problem—and oil spills just one of the risks. The trouble is our whole fossil fuel driven way of life. There is not a big enough store of fossil fuels on earth to sustain it, and if there were, it would only make matters worse. Prices would go down and use would go up. The environmental costs of extraction would rise and the climate would be wrecked that much sooner and more completely, perhaps irretrievably so.

We who care need to follow Gandhi's dictum and "be the change we wish to see in the world."

Here's how.

Step 1: Drive less. Do you hop in the car whenever you need something? Zigzag across the landscape to perform errands in opposite directions? Drive where you could easily walk? Join the club.

Americans burn up gas so freely because it hardly seems to cost them anything. The price at the pump is deceptively low and the true price—environmental destruction—is hard to recognize.

But for this brief moment in time, thanks to the oil spill, we can connect the dots. Use the opportunity to change the way—and amount—you drive. Plan your trips. Carpool. Walk. Bike. Give public transportation a chance.

Step 2: Care and repair. Cars and appliances, along with virtually everything else in our consumer culture, are considered more or less disposable nowadays. Since we expect to replace them, we don't keep them in good working order. Thus, they continue to operate, but grow less and less efficient, eating up energy unnecessarily when they run.

So take your car for regular tune-ups, keep the tires inflated, change your air conditioner filters, lubricate the moving parts of motors and do all those other pesky maintenance tasks recommended in the manuals.

Step 3: Get energy-efficient equipment. The difference between conventional products and energy-efficient ones can be quite staggering. For instance, an incandescent bulb uses four times as much energy to produce a given quantity of light as a compact fluorescent bulb—and 10 times as much as an LED. Yes, the energy-efficient alternatives cost more to buy, but they also cost less to operate. Besides, becoming the change you want to see in the world includes paying more for a cleaner, safer future. So, shop for Energy Star appliances and factor fuel economy into your choice of car.

Step 4: Go local—and not just with food. It's simple: goods need to be transported to market. The shorter the distance, the less energy required. Therefore, look for products made close to home.

Step 5: Change your habits. Today's norm is to live wastefully, but you don' t have to go along. To save energy:

• Turn off lights when not in use.
• Wash full loads of dishes and laundry.
• Air dry both.
• Change your clothes before the thermostat.
• Unplug chargers and always-on appliances.
• Reuse and recycle.
• Eat less meat.

Step 6: Buy less stuff. It takes energy to produce goods. Think twice before you throw it away on things you do not need.

Whatever you do, don't let this moment pass without some step toward change.

Yoga and Pregnancy...Perfect Partners by Emily Kneer

2010-06-10T09:09:00.007-05:00

It was a shock to me when I learned that I was pregnant. Well, maybe not that big of a shock, but still, I did feel my whole world tilt sideways for a while.

So many questions—How does this work? (We’re going to need some books! Which books?!) What can I eat? What can’t I eat? When? What do I do about work? My job is so physical—can I continue working? For how long?

On and on the questions arose, and I found myself wondering, How will being pregnant affect my yoga practice? How long will I be able to continue practicing? And then later in my pregnancy, when I was more comfortable with the idea of being pregnant, the question became, How will yoga affect my pregnancy?

In the beginning, pregnancy didn’t affect my practice at all. I felt pretty good! I was still able to do all the poses and activites I always could do. I was tired pretty often and practice was taxing after a long day, but it was important to my self-esteem to do “as much as I could for as long as I could.” These were explicit doctor’s orders too, and I clung to them as my mantra as the weeks went by. Since I didn’t know exactly how my body was going to change, I was uncertain as to when would be the last time I could do a beloved pose or when I would have to dial down the intensity on the tough stuff.

Further into the first trimester and on through the second, I felt particularly betrayed by my body—I felt I couldn’t trust it anymore. My body’s chemistry, shape, balance, and distribution were all changing on me, and I had zero control over it. I was mad at my body for not being able to do what I demanded of it. That’s when yoga first started affecting my pregnancy. I had to start being forgiving of myself, in my practice and in life. I had to learn to be patient with my body, to think before I demanded something of myself, and to listen to what my body or the little voice in my head said. These were skills I had learned in practice but had not taken into my life yet. And by learning to take these skills into my life, not only did my yoga practice affect my pregnancy, but also my pregnancy affected my yoga practice.

The third trimester brought on big shifts in my body as the baby put on weight. By this time, there were definitely activities and poses that I couldn’t do, but now I was skilled at listening, trusting, and forgiving myself for what I could no longer do. I was much more comfortable, both with the pregnancy and with being Pregnant Emily. (Besides, I had an active little Chili Pepper in there, a growing person that I was rather endeared to by that point!)

Frankly, I was able to do quite a lot even when I was quite far along in my pregnancy. Practice was still challenging, fulfilling, and fun. But in my day-to-day life, folks were really stepping up the rhetoric: “Oh, let me get that for you!” “Oh, you shouldn’t be lifting/pushing/pulling/standing like that!” and other comments of the like became increasingly common. I would laugh and graciously let the person help me, but I was thinking, “If you could see what I do in my yoga class, you’d know there’s no need to jump to my aid. I’m quite capable.” All in all, I had a healthy and easy pregnancy, and not only was I able to stay active longer than I expected, but my body was capable of more than I expected late in my pregnancy too.

By the time my nine months were up, I really could trust my body (although I guarantee you I was not pondering such abstracts at the time!). I had started out feeling betrayed by my body and the seemingly certain sharp decline of my physical capabilities, but I’d since come to realize that because of yoga, I could acutely and completely trust my body (and mind) on the journey of pregnancy. My practice had made me healthy, active, and mindful. I could trust my body to tell me when it had had enough and was tired or in discomfort. I had the presence of mind to listen and adjust without hesitation or judgment.

Moreover, and perhaps most importantly, I could trust my body to do what I asked of it during the delivery itself. I was focused, existing entirely in the present—not frightened or worried about the future. Because of my practice, I was able to relax on cue—so much so that I was able to doze between contractions and save my strength. I was able to quickly identify where I was holding tension and promptly let it go. And finally, being so familiar with my body and its groups of muscles, I was adept at focusing on the physical demands of delivery, allowing me to really isolate my pushes.

So, like so many relationships in this world, one condition helped the other, and vice versa. Yoga absolutely smoothed the path of my pregnancy, in so many ways. And being pregnant brought my yoga practice to a new level of challenge, patience, mindfulness, and forgiveness.

These lessons are continuing to evolve for me as I get back on the mat. I’m fighting hard to get back to the level at which I was practicing before I became pregnant. I’m also fighting hard to forgive myself as I slowly make my progress. But if I never get there again, that’s okay too. I have a sweet little daughter to look after!

The Summer Schedule is Almost Here!

2010-05-24T21:47:00.003-05:00

Those of you that have studied with me for any length of time know two things. 1) That summer is unequivocally my favorite time of year and 2) that means specialty classes during June, July and August at the Tai Chi Center. Most years I've jammed packed the calendar with every variation of yoga I can teach making for a fun but perhaps dizzying array of practices. So this year will be a little different. We will continue to explore fun and new styles, but with a little more time for each one to evolve. Each exploration will develop over the course of a few weeks, and will be taught in the Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday night classes so everyone can be a part of it. Of course the teachings will be level appropriate. I am currently putting the final touches on the schedule and I will post it on the web page as soon as I do. As always, I'm looking forward to a summer of great yoga, and I hope you are too!

Happy Earth Day...April 22 2010 !

2010-04-20T12:51:00.001-05:00

My favorite quote for Earth Day is simply "Everyday is Earth Day" by an unknown author. Indeed, if we treated Mother Earth in this manner things would be very different today. But as spring flowers are blooming and the trees budding and the chirp of birds returning I find I am still very passionate about the beauty of this Earth, despite the dire situation we've put her in. Passionate enough to try and live everyday as if it were Earth Day. Here are a few more quotes that I love, as well as a few ways to help keep Mother Earth happy.....Have a blessed Earth Day!

"Earth provides enough to satisfy every man's need, but not every man's greed." Mahatma Ghandi, Spiritual Leader 1869-1948

"I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in." John Muir, Preservationist 1838-1914

"To see a world in a grain of sand, And a heaven in a wild flower, Hold infinity in the palm of your hand, And eternity in an hour." William BlakePoet, painter1757-1827

Some "green" tips:
Consider going vegetarian, at least occasionally. There is more toxic waste produced from animal fields, slaughter, processing, and distribution that there is pollution from passenger cars. And besides, going veggie is paramount in the practice of AHIMSA...one of the first rules of yoga..."non harming".

Shop everywhere with re-usable bags. Some stores even offer you a discount if you bring your own bag. And some are now offering to plant a tree if you purchase one of their re-usable bags.

Turn off the water when you brush your teeth, or combine teeth brushing with showering.Collect the running bath water while you wait for it to heat up for your shower. You can use it on plants, to wash dishes, or the next time you flush the toilet.

Recycle your old yoga mat. They make great sticky strips for drawers, closets, or shoe racks. They provide extra cushioning on a hard chair. You can also cut it into really small pieces and use it for packaging padding. (remember to tell the recipient of your package to re-use it too!)

Don't throw away that junk mail. Much of it can be used for scratch paper!

Wash out freezer baggies and re-use them. I find I can get at least 10 uses out of one bag before it's spent. Saves money too!

Switch to organic, eco friendly products wherever you can. It really makes a big impact. And pretty soon the farmers markets will be open....support them and support sustainability!

Go to Uncommon Ground on Devon Ave and order a "tree-tini". For every '"tree-tini" purchased a tree is planted....and it's yummy too!

However you celebrate Earth Day, I hope you do it with a smile! That too makes the Earth a much better place!

Look Well To This Day

2010-04-18T20:18:00.002-05:00

Many of you have commented on the simple beauty of this and last months closing proverb. I'd like to post it for you so that it is yours whenever you want to refer to it. Enjoy

Look Well To This Day

Look well to this day for it is life

The very life of life

In it's brief course lie all the realities and verities of existence

The bliss of growth

The splendor of action

The glory of power

For yesterday is but a dream

And tomorrow is only a vision,

But today, well lived, makes every yesterday a dream of happiness

And every tomorrow a vision of hope

Look well, therefore, to THIS day

Resolve to Evolve

2010-01-01T18:25:00.002-06:00

Give your New Year's resolutions a yogic twist—set an intention and infuse the New Year with positive change. By Catherine Guthrie

A new year's resolution is a noteworthy concept—start off the year with a change for the better. So how did it devolve into a subconscious exercise in self-loathing? Lose 10 pounds! (Message to self: You're fat.) Stop drinking caffeine! (You're unhealthy.) Call Mom and Dad once a week! (You're ungrateful.) Why not celebrate this new year by trading in your tired (and probably familiar) resolutions for a Samkalpa instead?

POSITIVE POWER
A Sanskrit word, Samkalpa means "will, purpose, or determination." To make a Samkalpa is to set an intention—it's like a New Year's resolution with a yogic twist. While a resolution often zeros in on a perceived negative aspect of ourselves (as in, "I want to lose weight, so no more chocolate chip cookies or ice cream or cheese"), a Samkalpa explores what's behind the thought or feeling ("I crave chocolate chip cookies or ice cream or cheese when I'm feeling stressed or sad. I will set an intention to become conscious of this craving and allow my feelings to arise and pass, rather than fill up on fats").

EFFORT COUNTS
A Samkalpa also praises the nobility of the effort rather than focusing on what you are doing wrong. "New Year's resolutions leave me feeling guilty and mad at myself for not keeping them," says Wendy McClellan, a yoga teacher in Louisville, Kentucky. So, last year, in a conscious effort to reject the resolution rut, she taught a special New Year's Eve yoga class and encouraged students to look back and let go. Her intention or Samkalpa? To open her heart to new possibilities. "An intention has much more of a global sense than a resolution," she says. "It helps me be softer with myself." With a Samkalpa, the self-loathing that comes from dwelling on past transgressions can begin to dissolve. In its place is an exercise in effort and surrender—create an intention and open yourself to the universe.

Samkalpa Setting

LOOK INWARD For several days, set aside time to write in a journal and meditate. Mull over your typical resolutions. How do they make you feel? Anxious? Unsettled? Incomplete? Now contemplate how you would like to feel during the coming year. Is there any way you can reframe your results-oriented resolutions into something that will make this year's journey more joyful and worthwhile?
REPHRASE IT Create a short sentence or phrase for your Samkalpa. Be careful not to set limitations based on fear. For example, instead of "May life bring me only happiness and joy this year" consider "May I be happy and open to what life brings me."
BE FIRM BUT FAIR Change doesn't happen overnight. When you stray from the essence of your Samkalpa, don't berate yourself. Instead, gently remind yourself of your intention. But be firm in your resolve—it's a good idea to incorporate your Samkalpa into your daily routine. Use it as a mantra during pranayama or meditation practice; post it on your computer, phone, or mirror; or simply say it to yourself quietly before going to sleep. —C.G

Holiday Schedule

2009-11-12T10:57:00.004-06:00

Seems like we just reluctantly said goodbye to summer and suddenly the Holiday Season is upon us.

We are fortunate this year that none of the traditionally celebrated holidays fall on any of our regularly scheduled classes, so for the first time in a long time I'm happy to say that there will be NO cancelled classes for this holiday season. Yeah!

The Wednesday night class before Thanksgiving is a great time to rev up the metabolism for the feasting that follows. In addition, the classes during the holiday season will be focused on stress reducing, deep breathing, and joy seeking. Don't miss out!

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Winter Solstice or the arrival of the New Year, may this time be a reflection on the good in your life and in your heart. Again this year the holidays symbolize an opportunity to connect with the ones we love and to what is really important in our lives. As this season can bring out increased emotions and sometimes be quite stressful, please remember to take the time to breathe.....literally! Set aside a little time each day for stillness and you will find this time even more enjoyable. A blessed holiday season to you all!

OM SHANTI

Loving Kindness

2009-11-04T12:31:00.004-06:00

This month brings a new closing inpirational quote for our classes. Since it's a little challenging I thought I'd write it down for you so that you can take more energy to absorb it's meaning and vibration and less to just hearing it. Of course we will have this closing for several months so it will become easier with time. Namaste

Put away all hindrances. Let your mind, full of love, pervade one quarter of the world, and so too the second quarter, and so the third, and so the fourth. And thus the whole wide world, above, below, around and everywhere, altogether continue to pervade with love-filled thought, abounding, sublime, beyond measure, free from hatred and ill-will.

Adapted from the Digha Nikaya

Shhhh!

2009-10-10T15:16:00.002-05:00

Lately I've been asking myself, "Is it me or is it getting noisier in here?" But all jesting aside, I have noticed a trend towards more noise of many varieties in yoga classes lately. Sometimes it's the loud slapping of a mat against the floor, especially apparent when a participant is late. Or maybe it's the chatter before class that on occasion seems to escalate into a dim roar. Although I highly encourage community and freedom of expression in classes, I also want to remind you that this is a sacred space, and for some participants, their only quiet sanctuary in a very noisy world. So to help us all come back to the relative quietude, here's some friendly suggestions.

1) Pre-Class Chatter. I love that you all want to communicate with each other. So plan an outing after class! Some of you have done this and find it to be really fun! And please try to keep pre-class chatter not only soft, but pertinent to the practice. Politics of any kind is banned! Try to use the time before class to do some prep work for your practice such as warming up, practicing some clarifying breathing (Nadhi shodana perhaps?) and calm down from your day. You will get much more out of your practice. And if you must communicate vociferously with someone, perhaps go in the hallway as to not disturb others.

2) Coughing, Sneezing and Other Bodily Functions. While we can't always control a cough or sneeze (or other bodily functions) do your best to handle them appropriately. There will of course be an increase in sneezing etc. as the winter rolls in, so practice safe sneezing and for Pete’s sake cover your mouth!(an elbow is best for this). And there really is no need to say "bless you" to someone everytime they sneeze or cough. They are already blessed, divine beings! If you think you may still be contagious, please don’t share…...stay home and heal. We will send you blessings from class for a speedy recovery.

3) Verbal Utterances. While I encourage you all to really FEEL the shifts and awarenesses in your body as you practice, it's not always desirable for you to share your feelings verbally with the class. Yawning is a sign you are not breathing properly, or you need some sleep. Not so significant in and of itself, but when we are in the middle of a thought provoking practice a yawn can come across as rude and inappropriate. Please be aware of how your yawns, moans, groans, comments etc. are being received by the rest of the class and your instructor. Although Yoga is a journey within, we are still practicing as a community...please be mindful of respecting the peacefulness of others in that community.

4) Questions. I love, love, love questions! I think it shows a real desire to learn and I’m always excited to see if there is a way I can help you understand the practice better. But like everything else there is a time and a place for questions. The very best time is during a private yoga lesson. That gives you the opportunity to have one on one time with your instructor and cover every single thing you may want to. If that’s not an option, then try to remember your question for when the class is finished, or perhaps ask it before the class starts. As most of you know there is a flow to the class that is an important building block for the energy flow, physical awareness, and mental clarity. It’s best to not interrupt that flow if possible.

So here’s the thing. We all want to get the most out of our practice. I want you to get the most out of your practice. So practice with gusto, but remember to check in now and again with the principles of the Yamas and Niyamas (codes for living soulfully and ethically with others as well as ourselves.) Peace and Namaste.

Welcome to Fall

2009-09-15T11:54:00.002-05:00

Well, it's interesting. Even though the calendar says it's September I believe the weather has been warmer than in August! Believe me, I'm not complaining. I love it! But the gently turning leaves, and the already shorter days remind me that indeed Fall approaches. Fall is a beautiful time and I encourage all of you to embrace it. It it natures way of slowing down from the frenetic pace of an active summer...a season when we often feel we have to get in as much as possible before it ends.

As we enter into Fall there will be some wonderful yoga to be experienced. The classes will remain the same time and format, but I will really be focusing more on staying true to the level the class is listed as. For example, there have been several Tuesday nights when only intermediate students showed for a beginning level class. So, my teaching bumped up to an intermediate level. Seemed reasonable at the time, but I feel it's really important to remain true to how the class is posted. That way a new student can feel free to start at anytime, and a returning student can know that if they want their practice to be a little lighter they can attend the beginning level class. As a reminder, Monday is Open Level, which means anyone who has studied yoga before is welcomed. It is not intended for first time participants, but will accommodate them if there is no other option. Tuesday is the Beginning Level class, and it will stay at an inviting slower pace. Returning students are very welcomed to this class to refine their practice and work at a deeper spiritual level. And of course Wednesday is the Intermediate Level class and will always include challenging asanas, inversions and more advanced pranayama techniques. Students are encouraged to study for at least 3 years before attending this class.

Having said all that, I am really looking forward to some exciting and enriching yoga this season and into the next. I have a few interesting ideas up my sleeve... :-)

Let's all take time to feel the pace of nature and bring a little more breath into our practice and our lives. Fall can also be a wonderful time to show gratitude for all the riches of our lives, the beauty that surrounds us, and the deep connections we have to those we love.

May this season bring you a harvest of joy....

Vacation Time

2009-08-12T22:51:00.003-05:00

It has been a delightful summer of study. There has been wonderful participation in such classes as Sensory with Gong, Yin Yoga, Inversion Workshop, Pranayama and Chant, Partner Yoga, and many more. Thank you all for your willingness to participate in new and different focuses. It is a wonderful way to expand our awareness, learn new techniques, and perhaps face and conquer some fears. Those of you that participated in the specialty classes should be quite proud of yourselves!

We still have a couple more coming up. This Friday (8/14) is the special Dance of Yoga Workshop. It should prove to be a really wonderful evening. Find more info on the webpage calendar. Go to www.yogachicago.us, then click on Adult Yoga, scroll down to find the calendar, click on the class for more info. And, last but not least, Tuesday the 18th is Restorative with Gong Bath. Plan on leaving class blissed out!!

The following week (August 24-26) I will be on vacation so there will be no classes. Perhaps boost your home practice this week! As we move into fall I look forward to another season of learning, breathing, expanding and exploring. Let's enjoy the rest of summer and look well to approaching season....

Important Class Update

2009-07-08T12:51:00.002-05:00

I hope you are all enjoying summer! I've seen many of you at regular class and some of the specialty classes. We've had some great experiences up to this point (Restorative, Partner, Chakras, Moon Salutations) and I'm looking forward to many more!(Sensory with Gong, Yoga by the Lake, Yin Yoga to name a few) There is one change to the specialty class calendar that you need to know. The Inversion Workshop was scheduled for August 19th, but because so many of you said you couldn't make it that date I've switched it to August 12th. Please make a note of it...

Also a reminder about the Special Workshop on Friday August 14th. We'll start with a super fun Yoga Dance class, follow it with Yoga Discussion, and finish the evening with a veggie pot luck. The evening will begin at 6p.m. and go until 9-ish. The cost is $20 and a veggie dish for the pot luck dinner. Sign up at the studio or send me an email. Please sign up by July 24th....I envision this to be a wonderful gathering of all my students, a chance for us to work together, breathe together, play together, eat together and share those deep philosophical thoughts!

So here's to summer, a chance to have some fun exploring different aspects of yoga, and connecting with the wonderful community of yogis and yoginis you share this beautiful practice with. Thank you all for sharing your practice with me.

Namaste,
Tracy

The Adventures of Yolanda the Yogini ....... by Ranya Verson

2009-06-17T13:00:00.003-05:00

Yolanda had been doing yoga for 18 years or so when she first discovered her super powers. She was a devote yogini, first training under one of the most established teachers in Chicago, moving on to receive a certificate to teach yoga herself and finally finding Tracy Von Kaenel as her ultimate inspiration for claiming her super powers at last.

When Yolanda first began her adventure in yoga, many things hurt. Her lower back constantly pinched and ached, her neck and shoulders screamed and her over-flexibility met praise and accolade, in spite of imminent danger. Like many yogis and yoginis alike, she was a devoted student, making slow but steady progress, completely unaware of her super powers.

When she learned how to use her breath properly, she thought she had found her super power. Although extremely useful, she was to discover that breath alone would not lubricate her limbs into alignment with her core. When Yolanda got certified, she discovered a modicum of upper body strength and was able to do chattaranga with increasing ease. Much to her chagrin, chattaranga did not enable her to transcend into the power and release of a meditative flow. Then Yolanda met Tracy V. Tracy V., a super hero herself, was not forthcoming of where precisely to locate a yoginis super powers. She surely demonstrated super powers and taught her students in the hopes that all her yogis and yoginis would find their super powers, but alas, many wonderful tears and releases later, but still no magic flow.

Then one day Yolanda opened her closet and starring right in front of her was her Bolivian wool blanket that she heroically captured while running over the boarder from Peru to Bolivia in search of much needed warmth from the chilly Andean air. Without a thought, Yolanda toted this blanket to Tracy V's yoga class .

When the blanket appeared in yoga class, her fellow yoginis were suspicious, not to mention a tad jealous. Tracy V. noticed the blanket and named it bankie. Yolanda’s class mates teased her because of bankie in spite of a secret desire to get close to it. With bankie at her side and without warning, she began to feel and move differently.

Then, one day without thought or effort, Yolanda engaged her core, aligned her limbs and stretched into a glorious Warrior One pose. Bankie was at her side. Another evening, Yolanda’s classmates became concerned about the increasing temperature of the room. Yolanda, with a reptilian-craving for warmth, shivered with dread when someone requested that a fan be turned on. The sensation was enough to throw her yoga practice into the toilet, yet she imagined bankie thrown over the fans in the room and completed her “impossible” last chattaranga within form and without collapsing. After following Tracy V, in her re-energized, super-sweaty, Spring sessions, Yolanda welcomed savasana with new meaning as she laid bankie down, creating a cocoon for relaxation. She traveled to an unknown place and deep relaxation that is not of this world.

With bankie at her side, Yolanda can journey to places that she has not gone before. The illusive and hard won, meditative flow is within her reach. Yolanda has found her super powers.

Where do your super powers lurk?

Important Class Updates

2009-05-06T10:24:00.002-05:00

Summer is right around the corner and with it comes a couple adjustment to the regular schedule. Most of you know that I am a performer in the acrobatic/aerial dance company AMEBA and our concert this year is June 4-6 and 12-13. Due to numerous technical and dress rehearsal before the concert I need to cancel a few classes. So, here's the scoop. If you would like more information on the concert check out www.amebadance.org. It's a great show...something for everyone, tickets are cheap, and if you go with a group of 10 or more they are even cheaper! The show usually sells out early, especially for the second weekend, so if you are interested in coming, get tickets quick!
Thanks for your support and understanding. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Classes will be cancelled the following days:
Monday May 25th--in observance of the Memorial Day Holiday
Tuesday June 2nd
Wednesday June 3rd

Stay tuned for more information about the specialty classes for summer! And keep sending in those ideas....

Happy Earth Day...April 22 2010 !

2009-04-22T09:45:00.003-05:00

Consider going vegetarian, at least occasionally. There is more toxic waste produced from animal fields, slaughter, processing, and distribution that there is pollution from passenger cars. And besides, going veggie is paramount in the practice of AHIMSA...one of the first rules of yoga..."non harming".

Shop everywhere with re-usable bags. Some stores even offer you a discount if you bring your own bag. And some are now offering to plant a tree if you purchase one of their re-usable bags.

Turn off the water when you brush your teeth, or combine teeth brushing with showering.

Collect the running bath water while you wait for it to heat up for your shower. You can use it on plants, to wash dishes, or the next time you flush the toilet.

Don't throw away that junk mail. Much of it can be used for scratch paper!

Wash out freezer baggies and re-use them. I find I can get at least 10 uses out of one bag before it's spent. Saves money too!

Switch to organic, eco friendly products wherever you can. It really makes a big impact. And pretty soon the farmers markets will be open....support them and support sustainability!

Go to Uncommon Ground on Devon Ave and order a "tree-tini". For every '"tree-tini" purchased a tree is planted....and it's yummy too!

However you celebrate Earth Day, I hope you do it with a smile! That too makes the Earth a much better place!

Today

2009-03-11T09:07:00.003-05:00

This poem by Ralph Waldo Emerson has a simple but important message. In this time of great uncertainty about the future, this reminds us to not only be here now, but to really enjoy the now. Have a great day!

Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year. He is rich who owns the day. And no-one owns the day who allows it to be invaded with fret and anxiety. Finish every day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in. Forget them as soon as you can, tomorrow is a new day. Begin it well and serenely, with too high a spirit to be cumbered with your own nonsense. This new day is too dear, with its hope and invitations, to waste a moment on the yesterdays.

***Ralph Waldo Emerson

Have You Tried YOGASSAGE?

2009-02-09T09:38:00.004-06:00

In case you haven't heard, I'm now offering a special practice called Yogassage! Yogassage is comprised of passive yoga stretching (meaning you lay there, I gently stretch you), acupressure, a little Reiki, a little traditional massage, a little meditation, a little chakra balancing, and a whole lot of tension release. It's very similar to Thai Yoga Massage, but with added stuff (Tracy style). Sessions are done on the padded floor, you stay fully clothed, and they last about an hour to an hour and 1/4. The fee is $85 a session. You will leave feeling soothed, refreshed and relaxed.

Here's what some Yogassage recipients are saying:

"Yogassage is a truly unique, therapeutic, wonderful form of body relaxation! It really ought to be called YogAHHHssage. I liked so much about it: the combination of beneficial elements that Tracy (and ONLY Tracy!) knows how to employ; the fact that it is not entirely passive (There is no risk of falling asleep and drooling or snoring, during a yogassage session!). With her extensive knowledge of the entire body, glandular and muscular-skeletal points, Tracy addresses very gently all regions, tip to toe. I had not requested work on any particular problem area nor muscle strain, but it is apparent that this kind of relaxation therapy would be quite helpful for sore muscles. I did find it to be very relaxing, releasing, healing and pampering. Afterwards, I felt distinctly soothed, invigorated and cleansed! I would absolutely recommend this to anyone----it is a delightfully innovative, highly effective experience! I look forward to my next yogahhhssage!" Miriam Sturm
.........................................................................
"I've had a variety of massages across the globe and always like to try out new treatments. I'd recommend Yogassage for dancers, yogis, and other active people who exercise regularly. I don't think it would be a good option for people who are out of touch with their bodies as they probably don't know how to relax! There's something unique about how the stretches and manipulated adjustments lead to relaxation verses a Swedish massage where it's motionless. The closest examples of similar massages would be Thai or Shiatsu. By relaxing and giving into the movement, a deeper relaxation is achieved than typical massage. Still, it's completely relaxing since the practitioner is doing all the work and the recipient is passive. I think a few sessions will ultimately help anyone's yoga practice as one benefit is a better understanding of the range and limits of movement. I'd recommend Yogassage to all your students, friend, and family as a way to both be pampered and learn a little more about their own bodies." Sona
..........................................................................

"Yogassage: Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh! What more is there to say? Tracy’s Yogassage is unlike anything I’ve experienced before. A large part of Yogassage is Tracy moving your body in Yoga or yoga-like movements while you’re on the floor. The more you relax, the more she can move you deeper than you can go by yourself. This sounds scary, but it feels wonderful and I have felt released, not sore, afterwards.

I’ve had three Yogassages so far. Twice I’ve gone because of shoulder pain and stiffness in my neck (not surprising considering this winter!). Once I went for general tuning and relaxation. After each Yogassage I feel like I’m floating, and the tightness and pain are gone. It’s difficult to decide if I should stay for Yoga afterwards (which I’ve done twice and have felt an amazing level of fluidity and joy), or if I should go home and wrap myself in the peace that follows the Yogassage.

I think the critical element of Tracy’s Yogassage is Tracy. The same compassion and strength/gentleness and knowledge that are the hallmark of Tracy’s yoga teaching style come through in her Yogassage technique. She just KNOWS where I need work. I think the biggest responsibility we as Yogassage recipients have is to make sure we tell Tracy beforehand of any injuries or medical issues we have so the level of massage will be appropriate.

I found that I got more out of the 2nd Yogassage, and even more out of the 3rd, because I knew what to expect and was able to relax into them more. Can’t wait for the next one!"
Renee Schwartz

So why not treat yourself to a Yogassage session soon? Just contact me anyway that's convenient to set up an appointment. I'm looking forward to seeing you soon!

Namaste,
Tracy

New Year...New Opportunities

2008-12-29T14:23:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year to all of you! I truly believe 2009 holds great promise in so many ways. May we all enter into it with a positive spirit and a willingness to live fully and freely!

With the beginning of the New Year we have a figurative moment to re-evaluate our dharmic path, and a fresh opportunity to work a little more towards that path. Hopefully for all of you that includes Yoga! I encourage all of you to take this auspicious beginning as an opportunity to not only deepen your level of yoga practice and study, but to share the gift of yoga with those you love. Imagine a world where everyone just had a chance to breathe before they acted or reacted. I believe the setting in the world is perfect right now to embrace the strong, positive vibrational power that Yoga has...and what better way to spread the peace, stillness and strength than to encourage your friends and family to begin a practice. To help facilitate this I'm offering gift certificates for Yoga with Tracy Von Kaenel at a discounted rate. Purchase a certificate for 2 classes or more and get one class free! This offer is good for new students only.... Let me know if you'd like to purchase a gift certificate for a friend. This is a limited time offer so hurry! Expires Jan. 31st 2009. Gift certificates good for one year.

New beginnings also bring changes. Please see the additional posting for class changes and additions. Blessings to you all in this beautiful new year. May it bring you moments of great joy, great peace, and great strides on your dharmic path.

Class Changes and Additions

2008-12-29T14:20:00.002-06:00

Starting January 1st, 2009 there are a few changes and additions to the current schedule at the Tai Chi Center.

First,unfortunately, due to lack of attendance, the Wednesday 12:30-1:30 class will no longer run. There may be a chance to re-establish this class in the future if there is enough interest.

On the flipside, I'm happy to announce that I will now be offering private lessons. The current sheduled time available for privates is 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, right before the Tuesday night class. Other times may be available as well. This is a wonderful opportunity to work on something specific that we may not get to in class, or if you are working with an injury and need modifications to help you in class. It is also a great chance to learn how to deepen your practice.

In addition, I'm offering a new style of privates called YOGASSAGE. What's that you ask? It's a combination of passive yoga stretching (meaning you lay there, I gently stretch you), gentle accupressure, a little Reiki, a little traditional massage, a little meditation, and a whole lot of tension release. It's very similar to Thai Yoga Massage, but with added stuff (Tracy style). Sessions are done on the padded floor, you stay fully clothed, and they last about an hour. It's very peaceful and soothing.The fee for all private sessions are $85 a session and usually run about an hour to an hour and 15 minutes. If you would like to schedule a private lesson of any sort please contact me either in person, email or phone.

Holiday Schedule

2008-11-10T11:02:00.004-06:00

The following classes will be cancelled due to the holidays. Take advantage of the classes that are still running! Anyone is welcome at any class and will be challenged appropriately.

I hope to see a lot of you during this busy time!

Cancelled Classes:

Wednesday November 26th 12:30-1:30 only
(the evening class WILL run)

Wednesday December 24th 12:30-1:30 and 6:00-7:30

Wednesday December 31st 12:30-1:30 and 6:00-7:30

'Tis the Season

2008-11-10T10:50:00.004-06:00

Once again the busy holiday season approaches and our normal routine is thrown out the window. It is challenging during this time to remember to include the things that make us feel and function our best, like sleep, yoga, proper nutrition and exercise. I invite you to deepen your awareness this year of the things that allow you to fully experience the joys of the holidays without the stresses they often include. As the season brings colder weather it is a great time to deepen or begin a meditation practice. Just a few minutes a day can make a difference. A home yoga practice can also help offset the mood changes that come with changing weather and changing schedules. And of course, the more yoga classes you can attend the more likely you'll stay grounded and focused, as well as open to the joy. This can truly be a special time if we enter into it with a connection to our bodies, minds and spirits. No matter what you celebrate, may it bring you a multitude of love, light and laughter. Namaste, Tracy

My Life in Yoga by Molly Moynahan

2008-09-17T08:56:00.001-05:00

In 1977 I was studying History and English in Dublin, attending Trinity College as a one-year American student. After being cast in a production where I played Sylvia Plath with two other women, one of whom would remain my friend for many years to follow, I saw a sign advertising a yoga class in one of the common rooms costing, I believe 50p. My Irish actress friend and I decided we would attend but first we would visit our favorite Pub and run some lines, drink hot sherry, smoke some cigarettes and eat some crisps (potato chips). Thus fortified we tumbled into a dim room where a candle was lit, something mystical was spinning on a record player and several people were in corpse pose. This we could do. Later we managed a few other poses except my friend attempted a standing backbend and landed on her head. Our teacher, a no-nonsense German, stood over my friend and suggested we not drink before yoga class. Afterwards, she reassured us, was fine. We were hooked.
Later that year I would wind a scarf around my head and attempt to levitate in what was billed a “Man-powered flight contest”. I ended up on the front cover of the Irish Times, my bottom securely anchored to the ground in a passable lotus. My bank manager, even the destitute in Ireland had bank managers, laminated the newspaper clipping and hung it in his window. I was a celebrity.
Thus it started, my lovely relationship with yoga. It has lasted through three husbands, countless jobs, many geographical alterations, moments of incredible joy and personal tragedies. When a drunk driver killed my sister in 1984 I didn’t eat for a long time. One day a friend persuaded me to attend a yoga class and when we were finished I discovered I was still breathing. I traveled to a Buddhist monastery in the Catskills for a weekend workshop and ended up moving in part-time for nearly two years. The Renzai Zen tradition was a harsh discipline. We sat Zazen for many hours in the Zendo and frequently rose at 4am to chant and sit and do work practice. But we also practiced yoga. It was Iyengar with references to skin sliding down bones and props to open and strengthen your body. My teacher sent me to see a famous Iyengar instructor in Manhattan who told me I had fat feet and implied I would be on his list of sexy students if I could drop more weight. “I love my fat feet,” I said, having recently returned from the near dead. I walked away and never returned. For me yoga meant acceptance, it meant non-judgment, it meant I was breathing and above all, safe.
In 1993 I was living in London, hugely pregnant and blissfully happy. The birth practice I was in specialized in water births and yoga practice for its mothers. It did not believe in Caesarians or pain medicine unless absolutely necessary. We did yoga twice a week, countless kegels, squats and various other things to build our strength and flexibility. I was in hard labor for 72 hours. My son, who had been turned in my stomach from a breech position, ended up in a bad place for a speedy birth, his back against my spine. Days passed in a blur of boredom, fear and anticipation; finally he was born with me standing up after a long epidural inspired nap. I was able to take a walk that evening, no tearing, not a single physical scar except the usual pregnancy related body issues. (Oh my God! Is that my body?) When the doctor asked me how I managed to last so long and recover so fast I said, “Yoga.”
We moved to Dallas from London and Texas was not a positive fit. I worked out hard with a trainer who listened to me complain about the shopping malls, driving everywhere, football and big hair. I was restless, lonely and discontent. I avoided Yoga like the plague afraid of confronting my own personal demons in a practice that forced me to see things as they were.
When we moved to Chicago my marriage was on thin ice, I had not published anything in ages and, just like Dallas, I knew no one. Within a year I was separated from my son’s father and facing my forties as a divorced mother who had two novels published, taught at several schools as an adjunct, and who felt like a huge failure. My son attended a child’s camp where there were yoga classes and I found myself back in a dimly lit room trying to quiet the voices in my head.
From that point, I stayed. Tracy taught so perfectly in her imperfection, her support, and her challenging sometimes really hard, sweaty classes. She had a sense of humor but she was dead serious. I went to yoga in the heat, the rain, the snow, after 9/11, after another break-up, when my novel was purchased for lots of money, and when the same publisher rejected the two that followed. I got divorced finally, remarried, my son became a teenager and did terrible things, my father became horribly depressed and twice a week (when possible) I picked up my mat and went to yoga. I remain a beginner in this sanctuary, I remain flawed and in need of adjustment. I remain humble and grateful for the flexibility and soft discipline of my teacher and yoga.

The Day That Counts

2008-08-06T09:35:00.003-05:00

YESTERDAY: There are two days in every week that should be kept free from fear and worry. One of these days is yesterday; it has passed forever beyond our control. We cannot undo a single act we performed or erase a single word we said. Yesterday is gone beyond recall.
TOMORROW: The other day we should not worry about is tomorrow, with its possible problems or promise. Tomorrow is also beyond our immediate control. Tomorrow will come, but until it does we have no stake in tomorrow; it is not yet a reality.
TODAY: That leaves only one day- Today! Anyone can fight the battles of just one day. It is only when we add the burden of those two awful eternities-yesterday and tomorrow-that we can break down. It is not the experience of today that causes the most anxiety. It is the remorse or bitterness for something which happened yesterday, or the dread of what tomorrow may bring. Thus only one day in the week requires our very best attention and action---the TODAY we live one day at a time.

Anonymous

Vacation Week

2008-07-18T17:41:00.002-05:00

Just a reminder that there will be no classes the week of July 28th through August 3rd. Take this time to deepen your home practice or do your yoga on the beach! Enjoy the week and be ready to go Monday August 4th!

Beat the Heat

2008-06-26T09:28:00.004-05:00

It's Summer! And with summer comes heat. For some of us this is welcome news to our internal and external beings. But for some the intensity of the heat can bring lethargy, aggravation and discomfort. Try this simple Pranayama (breathing technique) to help cool you from the inside out both during your yoga practice and anytime you begin to feel overheated. The names of the techniques are called Sitali and Sitkari, which are done by inhaling through the mouth and exhaling through the nose. To do Sitali, sit in a comfortable position, make an O shape with your mouth, like you are going to whistle, and curl the tongue lengthwise. Then, as B.K.S. Iyengar instructs in Light on Pranayama (Crossroad, 1998), "draw in air...as if drinking with a straw and fill the lungs completely." Withdraw the tongue, close the mouth, and hold the breath for five to 10 seconds. Exhale through the nose. Repeat this cycle for five to 10 minutes and then rest and breathe normally. If you can't curl your tongue, try Sitkari, which is similar to Sitali except that the tongue is kept flat. Part the lips and allow the tip of the tongue to protrude slightly. Practice gently and without intensity. Both of these techniqes help to cool the air that is being brought into the system...sort of like our modern day air conditioning! So don't sweat the heat--Be cool!

Memorial Day Holiday

2008-05-17T12:05:00.001-05:00

Class will be cancelled on Memorial Day, Monday May 26th. Enjoy the day!

Welcome Spring!

2008-03-25T10:38:00.002-05:00

Finally it seems we are leaving winter behind. This is a time of great renewal and that includes our yoga practice. Spring is a wonderful time to re-energize your practice with some time honored techniques. Many of these techniques help to cleanse the body of the sluggishness of winter, much like spring cleaning your house. Try these simple yet effective techniques to clean your energetic house and let that fresh air of spring in.

1) BREATHE: The stale air within our houses and indoor spaces takes its toll on our bodies. Now that the weather is turning warmer get outside and do some deep breathing. If you can’t go outside sit by an open window to practice this pranayama technique.
Sit comfortable and close eyes. Rest hands on belly. Breathe in through nose until belly is fully extended then hold that breath in for a second or two. Slowly exhale until you feel the belly contract…try to push out the last bit of breath. Take two normal breaths in between and then do the extended breath again. Repeat up to 5 times. This will help to wake up the lungs, the nervous system and will give you increased energy.

2) MOVE: Get moving with a more energized yoga practice. Spring is a time to get the cobwebs out of the body and re-awaken the fluid, youthful you. If you take one class a week, spring is a great time to bump this up. You will definitely notice major advances when you practice more often. If that’s not possible, this is a wonderful time to start a daily home practice, especially one that starts your day. Remember that you don’t need to do a whole hour class to benefit. A couple of significant poses every morning help to jump start the body and balance the mind. Good ones to start your day are Sun Salutations (or half suns), Triangle pose, Cobra pose, and Tree pose.

3) MEDITATE :Don’t worry…you don’t need to dedicate much time to this either, just a few minutes (perhaps after your asanas) dedicated to sitting quietly and perhaps envisioning the beautiful day you are lucky enough to enter into…. It can really change how your day rolls out.

4) PRACTICE RANDOM KINDNESS: Even when you are at your most grumpy, try being kind and considerate to others. You will find it changes your negative energy to positive, and in the meantime sends wonderful vibrations into the universe. Imagine that with every kind act or thought another flower blooms somewhere!

5) DETOX WITH DIET: Fasting is one way to cleanse the digestive system but it’s not for everyone. If you want to try it, this is an easy one as posted by Elson Hass, author of The New Detox Diet. “For starters, try a simple three-day liquid fast. “After three days, your energy starts to free itself,” says Haas. Take in only liquids: juices, vegetable broths, and teas as well as at least 8 to 10 glasses of spring or filtered water a day (2 of them when you wake up). Herbal teas made with slippery elm bark, dandelion, milk thistle, and licorice root will cleanse your digestive system and your liver. You can make fresh juices from fruits and veggies and add a little spirulina for extra flavor and amino acids. Take advantage of the natural inclination to slow down by going for long walks, meditating, taking naps, and writing in a journal. After your fast is done, start by eating whole grains and steamed vegetables.” If you feel fasting is not for you, try just lightening up. Dr. Deepak Chopra, a noted Ayurvedic M.D. recommends reducing dairy products, and eating foods that are more pungent, bitter and astringent rather that sweet, sour or salty.

Regardless of how you welcome Spring, enjoy the ritual of renewal. Celebrating rituals is an important part of our feeling connected to the earth and one another.
Happy Spring!

Important Class Announcements

2008-02-20T09:19:00.003-06:00

Due to my upcoming dance performance with AMEBA dance company there will be a few changes in the schedule for the first two weeks of March. They are as follows: Tuesday March 4th, Beginning Yoga 6-7:15p.m. will be taught by Maryann Lewis.
Wednesday March 5th, Intermediate Yoga 6-7:30p.m. will be CANCELLED.
Wednesday March 12th, 12:30-1:30p.m. will be CANCELLED.
All other classes will run as normal.
Thanks for your understanding...and come see the show!
Shanti, Tracy

Yoga Etiquette

2008-01-16T16:20:00.000-06:00

Here are some reminders to help you and your classmates get the most out of your yoga classes.

1) Before entering into a yoga classroom, please remove your shoes. It is a sign of respect for the practice as well as a symbol of transitioning from your daily life to your practice.

2) Try not to eat for two hours before a yoga class, and if possible, for one hour after class. Food in the stomach makes some of the poses uncomfortable, and can actually create digestive and circulatory problems. Food and drink also dampen the internal fire or “agni” that is an important aspect of the practice. Never bring food or drink into the classroom. If you feel you must drink during the class, please be discreet and use water only.

3) Try to arrive five to ten minutes early for the class. This will give you time to sign in, get situated, and calm and clear the mind. It will help you let go of the days events and bring yourself into the present moment. Try to use the time for this purpose. Out of respect for the practice and the fellow yogis, anyone arriving more than five minutes late will not be allowed to join class.

4) Do not leave class early. It is quite disruptive to the class as well as unsettling for your body and mind. The Savasana at the end of class is extremely important. It helps to calm the mind and connect the preceding asanas to the spirit. Schedule your time appropriately so that you can enjoy the whole experience rather than having to rush in or rush out.

5) Yoga is a journey within to stillness...so please be sure to turn off all outside disturbances such as cell phones, pagers, watch alarms and any other external distractions.

6) Make sure to let your instructor know if you have any conditions that may affect your practice such as injury, emotional disturbances or pregnancy. And be sure to always work within your comfort level.

7) Avoid wearing strong scented products. Yoga increases our awareness of all the senses and perfumes or other strong scents may be disturbing for others.

8) If you have any questions about the practice please ask me! I want each and every one of you to get the very most out of your yoga practice. Communication is a key aspect of the learning process.

9) Consider beginning a “sadana” or daily personal practice. Whether you take class everyday or practice at home, yoga was meant to be a daily practice. It is hard to maintain the physical, emotional and spiritual gains of the practice by only taking one class a week. You needn’t do a whole hour each day, but see if you can commit to at least a few poses everyday and a moment of meditation. You will be glad you did.

OVERALL...
Reach within your spirit, and execute yama and niyama, two of the basic principles of yoga –---codes of respect and restraint for yourself and respect for others-----
Namaste

Tracy

Keeping a Clear Head

2008-01-16T14:09:00.000-06:00

Winter is often the season of colds and flu. Besides the obvious recommendations of washing our hands regularly, eating well and getting plenty of sleep, there are some yoga techniques that help to stave off the possibility of catching these conditions. First and foremost, a regular yoga practice (3-5 times a week) is already going a long way to boost your immune system and strengthen your respiratory system. So you are already ahead of the curve if you are a regular practitioner. In addition there are some specific poses that help to support the immune system by stimulating toxin release. These include twisting poses such as Pavritta Trikonasana (revolved triangle), Marichyasana II (one legged seated twist), and extending poses such as Adho Mukha Svasana (downward facing dog), and Bhujangasana (cobra).

If you do get stricken with a cold it is best to practice poses that help the body heal. These can include Balasana (child pose), Adho Mukha Svasana (downward dog) which help keep the mucus out of the lungs, and Ustrasana (camel pose) to help open the lungs and sinuses. Easy restorative poses also help the body to heal by reducing the stress hormones. These include Supta Baddha Konasana (reclining bound angle pose) and Supta Savasana (supported corpse pose).

It is also helpful to practice specific Pranayama techniques. To help keep the sinuses and bronchial airways clear, a short daily practice of Nadi Shodana (alternate nostril breathing) is very helpful. Also Sectional Breathing (1/3 into belly, 1/3 into ribs ,and 1/3 into chest) helps build lung resistance to cold symptoms.

If you are familiar with nasal cleansing, this too can be an enormous boost to keeping the sinuses and head clear. An ancient Ayurvedic technique (the sister science to yoga), nasal cleansing incorporates what is commonly called a Netti Pot. It is a small pot that has a long spout that is directly inserted into one nostril. A saline solution is then run through one nostril and pours out the other. The procedure is then repeated on the other side. It is greatly effective, although it takes awhile to get used to. Recent findings from a Penn State University study involving 294 college students support this. Those who irrigated daily with saline experienced a significant reduction in colds.

The flu carries a slightly different set of circumstances because usually there is a fever. It is best not to practice yoga with a fever as it increases body heat. However, there is one pranayama technique that is recommended to reduce fever. Sitting in Sukhasana (easy pose) breathe slowly and deeply with tongue extended and curled like a U. Inhale through the tongue and exhale through the nose. This is a cooling breath called Sitali Pranayama. Practice for 1-3 minutes.

Remember that no matter how hard we try, sometimes even the healthiest of us get caught by the cold or flu bug. Should it happen to you, listen to the voice of your body and let yourself heal. Resist the temptation to keep going at the rapid pace you are used to. It is probably that pace that lowered your immune system in the first place. According to William Mitchell, N.D., a Seattle-based practitioner who teaches advanced naturopathic therapeutics at Bastyr University, studies show that many viruses and bacteria quietly reside within us until something within the body's internal environment becomes unbalanced. Then they rally into action and attack. So your best defense is to remember to pace yourself, take nutritional care of yourself, and do your yoga!

Shanti!

My Path To Yoga - By Janet Mullet

2008-01-16T13:52:00.000-06:00

Eight years ago, I spent an evening complaining of chronic neck pain, bad posture and general lumpiness, lamenting a dissatisfaction and rootlessness in my life. My friend responded by inviting me to join her for yoga. It was a small class in the attic of a church, and from the first sun salutation I knew I’d found something special. The combination of physical exertion, mindfulness, and respect for individuality drew me in. My commitment was erratic – I’d go each week for a couple months, then skip several weeks as life got busy, pick it up again, and then lapse – and still, yoga made me feel better. When we bought our first house, I stopped going for almost six months. To my surprise, I found that I really missed it, that I had started to develop an awareness of my body and to appreciate the increased mental clarity. I discovered Tracy’s classes at this point, and dedicated myself to the mat with renewed vigor.

I’ve now been practicing with Tracy for four & a half years, starting with one class a week, then twice per week, and adding a daily home practice about two years ago. Each increase in frequency has made a huge difference – being able to repeat an exercise from class at home, experiment with balance or rotation or extension, makes all the difference in the intellectual and instinctive understanding of each pose. Over time, my home practice has become a living thing, as I learn more about asanas and their effects on body and mind. I’ve discovered how to tailor my practice to my mood, level of energy, particular injuries or discomforts. Mantras heard first in class have become old friends, repeating “I breathe in compassion, I breathe out and release fear” as I work through difficult poses – or difficult times. I’ve learned to be comfortable in my skin, both with greater physical grace and deeper compassion. I am calmer, more patient (though that’ll never be one of my strengths!), and more generous. My sense of place in the world, in ‘the family of things’ is stronger than ever, and I am learning every day to be present in the moment. This summer, I spent a weekend at Kripalu, a yoga center in western Massachusetts, and was amazed by the ease of joining their practice, by how well Tracy had prepared me to be open to new ways of thinking, and by the strong sense of belonging to the world that was physically present in my chest.

The poses still aren’t easy – I discover something new in every class – and I struggle along with my fellow yogis to improve, breathe, and deepen. I am determined to be able to stay in a lunge endlessly, to develop a handstand away from the wall, to release all judgment about my body and my life. Each class inspires me, challenges me, and grounds me, providing new possibilities for my home practice, which reinforces our collective work and builds strength as nothing but repetition can.

The community I’ve found in class is warm and welcoming, and I enjoy sharing our journey as much as I value my personal growth. The gentle support of peers provides a strong platform on which to stand. Tracy’s leadership is invaluable, setting the tone for everyone who participates – and she has an uncanny way of targeting my particular issues each time, so that I feel as if she’s speaking directly and only to me as she guides our fluid and challenging classes, though I think all of us probably feel that way.

Discovering that yoga is a journey, mind and body together, has enriched my life in ways I never could have imagined those eight years ago, and I believe that I’m still only at the beginning of this path.

Patanjali's Yoga Sutra

2007-12-19T16:41:00.000-06:00

The practice of yoga is an art and science dedicated to creating union between body, mind and spirit. In short it is about creating a balance so we can live in peace, good health and harmony in connection with the greater whole. This art of right living has been practiced in India for thousands of years. The foundations of yoga philosophy were written down in The Yoga Sutra of Patanjali, approximately 200 AD. This ancient text provides an eight-step path for controlling the restlessness of the mind and body and codes to help us enjoy lasting peace. The core of Patanjali's Yoga Sutra is an eight-limbed path that forms the framework for yoga practice. Each is part of a holistic focus which eventually brings completeness to the individual. Because we are all uniquely individual, one can emphasize one branch and then move on to another as they deepen their understanding.

In brief the eight limbs are as follows:

The first two limbs that Patanjali describes are the fundamental ethical precepts called Yamas, and the Niyamas. Yamas and niyamas are the suggestions given on how we should deal with people around us and our attitude toward ourselves. The attitude we have toward things and people outside ourselves is yama, how we relate to ourselves inwardly is niyama. Both are mostly concerned with how we use our energy in relationship to others and to ourselves. The Yamas are broken down into five "wise characteristics." Rather than a list of dos and don'ts, "they tell us that our fundamental nature is compassionate, generous, honest and peaceful."

First, we will focus on the Yamas, and they are:
I. Yamas (Codes for Living Peacefully with Others)

1. Ahimsa - Compassion for all living things

2. Satya - Commitment to truthfulness

3. Asteya - Non-stealing

4. Brahmacharya - Sense control

5. Aparigraha - Non-grasping

Our next installment in the philosophy corner will cover the Niyamas.

Parent’s/Grandparents/Friends Day

2007-12-05T10:36:00.000-06:00

Hi All,
Just a reminder that Tuesday December 11th 4:30-5:30 is Parent’s/Grandparents/Friends Day at the Tai Chi Center of Chicago (4043 N Raveswood Suite 201). Come and see the Preteen/Teen yoga class in action. They are working on a little routine to show you and you’ll also be able to see a sampling of how the class is run. And there will be cookies at the end!! This is the last class of the session and the new session will start January 8th. Feel free to sign up for the new session while you are there!
If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.
Thank you!
Tracy

"Yoga is Great at Any Age" by Renee Schwartz

2007-12-04T22:13:00.000-06:00

“It’s amazing what you are doing now, considering who you were for the first 55 years of your life,” my mother recently said to me as I was heading out for Tracy’s Monday night Yoga class at the Tai Chi Center of Chicago. And she’s right. If someone had told me 5 years ago that I would be doing Yoga and Tai Chi and Meditation, and that I would be able to touch my toes, I would have thought they were hallucinating. So much has opened up to me since I retired in April 2003, and so much of that is a direct result of studying Yoga with Tracy.

I spent the first 55 years of my life not exactly as a couch potato, because I have always walked a lot, but certainly favoring activities of the mind over those of the body. I have always felt limited physically – not flexible, not graceful, not strong, not coordinated. Those are some pretty serious ‘nots’ when considering doing Yoga! But a funny thing happened over the last 4½ years: I am more flexible, more graceful, stronger, more coordinated.

But even more important, I realize that those are not the things that matter most to me now. Sure, I care about doing the Yoga asanas (poses) correctly, and I sometimes still get upset that I can’t do a graceful Warrior I with my arms lined up with my ears and my upper back arched. Maybe someday I’ll be able to and maybe not. What Yoga means to me now is much more than a set of physical movements – it has become an integral part of who I am and how I view life.

One of the things that I most appreciate about Tracy’s Yoga teaching style is her synthesis of the physical, the spiritual, the movement inward and outward. I hesitate to say ‘spiritual’ too loudly because I know that is a very personal place for many people. But having begun my Yoga journey as a person with strong ethical values but very limited experience with any kind of spirituality, this has become an important area of exploration for me. What Tracy made available to me was an atmosphere that encouraged this exploration without pressure, without expectations. And each class I take with Tracy reinforces the connection that Yoga has to all aspects of my life, and makes me a more fully integrated, more focused, gentler and more peaceful person.

In case this all sounds very serious, I have to say that Tracy has a great sense of humor, and one of the things that I respond to so fully is the joy and humor that she brings to her classes. It is not a frivolous humor – in fact, it enriches the class experience because it reminds me that we are real people doing something special that involves the full range of emotions.

So where do I go from here? I will continue to take Tracy’s Yoga classes three times a week (or more when possible). I will continue to feel a release of stress and a feeling of calm after class that I carry with me with gratitude. I will continue to read and explore the different physical and emotional and spiritual inquiries that I have begun through my exposure to Yoga. And I will continue to marvel as I bend over and touch my toes!

A Message From Tracy Von Kaenel

Copyrighting Yoga

Holiday Class Schedule and Specials

Aerial Yoga Classes Begin

Happy Earth Day 2011

Aerial Yoga comes to the Tai Chi Center

Live In Joy

Monthly Closing

Holiday Schedule 2010

Balancing an Unbalanced Body, Mind and Soul

Welcome to Fall

Oil Spill Got You Down? Don't fret, seize the opportunity —Sheryl Eisenberg

Yoga and Pregnancy...Perfect Partners by Emily Kneer

The Summer Schedule is Almost Here!

Happy Earth Day...April 22 2010 !

Look Well To This Day

Resolve to Evolve

Holiday Schedule

Loving Kindness

Shhhh!

Welcome to Fall

Vacation Time

Important Class Update

The Adventures of Yolanda the Yogini ....... by Ranya Verson

Important Class Updates

Happy Earth Day...April 22 2010 !

Today

Have You Tried YOGASSAGE?

New Year...New Opportunities

Class Changes and Additions

Holiday Schedule

'Tis the Season

My Life in Yoga by Molly Moynahan

The Day That Counts

Vacation Week

Beat the Heat

Memorial Day Holiday

Welcome Spring!

Important Class Announcements

Recommended Reading

Yoga Etiquette

Keeping a Clear Head

My Path To Yoga - By Janet Mullet

Patanjali's Yoga Sutra

Parent’s/Grandparents/Friends Day

"Yoga is Great at Any Age" by Renee Schwartz