SUPERHERO PARTY SUPPORTS INNER CITY KIDS

SUPERHERO PARTY SUPPORTS INNER CITY KIDS

Sarah Jamieson / Thoughts / , , / 1 Comment

They are Vancouver’s most precious resource.

The are our city’s future. 

They ARE our Inner City Kids.

On October 27th Join us for a night of Superhero Activism AND Hallowe’en Party like no other – with proceeds going directly to CLICK.

This is CLICK’s (Contributing to the Lives of Inner City Kids) mission statement, and I agree. The truth of the matter is this – BC has the largest child poverty rate in all of Canada, with 137,000 families living under the poverty and on low income. That’s 1 in 6 children in BC; where 49% are immigrant children and 40% are Aboriginal. In the bright and beautiful panoramic city of Vancouver, hundreds of our children are living in 3rd world conditions. And in a civilized city, such as ours – this just shouldn’t happen.

Many of you may not realize that there are children all over our city that go to school hungry and whose families have little to no money for safe out-of-school care. Many parents cannot afford food, basic necessities, clothing, bus fare and school supplies, let alone opportunities important to childhood development.  And around Halloween and the holidays, this time of merriment and celebration, many families aren’t as merry. No kid should be denied the festivities that bring our cultures and communities together; they should not be denied their basic rights in Canada.

CLICK (Contributing to the Lives of Inner City Kids) is a registered community centered charitable foundation that exists to fundamentally ensure that inner city kids in Vancouver have the opportunity to have a bright future and can contribute to our community. By raising funds for services, they allow kids to realize their dreams.

What did you want to be when you were a kid? Can you remember that far back, or maybe it is such a great, everlasting feeling that it feels like it was yesterday…

For me, it was to be an athlete or a Superhero – well actually I wanted to be both.  Some of those Superhero qualities included; lightning speed, ninja like reflexes, a fearless tenacity to live by a moral code of conduct and community compassion (aka much like a Police Officer) and the ability to use telepathy to understand the psyche and change behavior. I was 8, what can I say!  However, some things do not change, even in adulthood.

After2 decades of researching the human condition and behavior modification and speaking to hundreds of children and adults –  two “childhood” professions have stood out:

All children dream of being two things:

  1. An Athlete
  2. A Superhero

 

The Modern Day Superhero

Superhero qualities are not merely qualities reserved for those iconic characters we idealize, or the modern day mainstream movies we watch as entertainment. We believe in them because they demonstrate a dedication and unwavering balance towards facing fear and unjust acts, and are relentless at the pursuit of truth and justice for all.

The qualities that drive both that athlete and the superhero are paradoxically similar. Both the SUPERHERO and the ATHLETE are human qualities we all have, most of us just rarely aren’t conscious of when we use these qualities.

Let me enlighten you – if you are good – then you use them every day. Superhero qualities reside within all of us, and it is when we are children where the first seed of superhero-ism is born. Kids are the epitome of imagination and creativity. They are the cultivators and ideators of tomorrow and they fluctuate at the highest caliber of energy.  Our environment and our experiences play an integral role, which allow us to realize these qualities within ourselves.

This is why it is so important for all children to experience what it’s like to be a superhero.   Children living in poverty, rarely have this vision because there are no opportunities, but….

If you continue to read on, you will see that YOU have the power and opportunity to give a child THAT opportunity. To be a Superhero.

Are You A Superhero? What if YOU could improve the lives of children living in poverty? Would you do it?

This is where CLICK comes in. CLICK is a registered community based charitable foundation that exists to ensure inner city kids in Vancouver have a bright future. CLICK raises funds for programs and services that make a critical, daily difference in the lives of inner city kids.

On October 27th, Nicole Yamanaka, founder and owner of Le Physique Personal Training Studio is the master mind behind the “Superhero Hallowe’en Trivia Night” (with a little help from me bringing up the community investment side) and this night is a bonifed chance for you to let loose, put on your superhero costume and join the party of like-minded-community-oriented people of greatness. Did we mention it’s a party – YES! A mingle fest of superhero awesomesness.

On this night we celebrate superhero’s and at the same time raising funds and awareness for kids who deserve the same opportunity.  Come and eat, drink, play trivia, win some prizes AND proceeds from the tickets go directly to CLICK.

Your support could help inner kids be superhero’s.

Superhero Hallowe’en Party & Trivia Night

Theme: Superheroes and Villains

Location: Kingston Taphouse and Grille, 755 Richards Street Vancouver

Time: 730pm – Late

Trivia: Starts at: 830pm

Perks: Live DJ at 930pm, Prizes and Awards for Best Costume, Trick-O-Treat, Superhero Trivia.

Tickets: $20 in advance or $25 at the door

* Tickets at the door are limited* * Tickets also include a beverage*

Meet CLICK – board members will be in attendance!

 

How does CLICK help Inner City Kids?

CLICK raises money to help fund local organizations that provide critical programs, activities and resources for inner city children and families – including food programs, out-of-school care, programs in literacy, sports and arts and culture; which fill the gaps towards opportunity and experiences where they can be – Superheroes.  They provide a safe alternative to streets and they build life-long skills towards a child’s self-confidence and self-esteem.  All of CLICK’s board and staff are all volunteers  and are connected to Vancouver’s most vulnerable families.

For more information on programs and CLICK, please visit – http://www.clicktokids.ca/

Join our facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/#!/events/388719584529970/?fref=ts

New Yoga Wear Brand Debuts a Kick Asana Collection

New Yoga Wear Brand Debuts a Kick Asana Collection

Taya / Accessories / , , / 0 Comment

Founded by yoga die-hards, YogaGlyphs introduces a new collection of t-shirts focused on comfort and quality with a touch of humor. This debut collection for YogaGlyphs encompasses 7 styles for women and 3 styles for men, featuring unique body shapes that are functional and comfortable.  Quality fabrics will carry a person from the yoga mat through the rest of their day.


YogaGlyphs Fall 2012 Women’s Collection Original Me

Tank on Me

Flashdance

YogaGlyphs Fall 2012 Men’s Collection

The complete YogaGlyphs Fall 2012 Collection is available online at YogaGlyphs.com.

 

Still Tickets Left for Paul Muller-Ortega next Weekend!

Still Tickets Left for Paul Muller-Ortega next Weekend!

amyh / Events, Meditation, News, Studios, Teachers / 0 Comment

With the onset of fall and the need to draw more inward focus, it’s the perfect time to spend a weekend in meditation and learning. We are very fortunate to have renowned scholar and teacher Paul Muller-Ortega here for a weekend of Sadhana Satsang Inner Space Yoga on Oct 20-21.

Tickets are $300+hst with the class running all Saturday and Sunday (9:30am-5:30pm). Register online here. Don’t miss out on this unique event!

Detailed description of the weekend:

Churn the Ocean of Infinite Possibility and thus invite the most auspicious life for yourself! The ancient Hindu myth
of the Churning of the Ocean of Milk symbolically conveys the centrality and importance of authentic Yogic practice, Sadhana. It is Sadhana, not philosophy or mere ideology which lies at the center of the Tantric Shaivite Yogic tradition. Through the daily application of profound and profoundly transformative Tantric Yogic practices, the
practitioner begins to experience the nectarean luster of the Light of Consciousness within.

Sadhana churns our awareness. It allows for the arising of fulfillment as an ongoing quality of each moment. Through authentic, deep practice, our inherent gifts and skills are gradually, spontaneously activated and become accessible to us. Sadhana becomes the living doorway through which we can inquire ongoingly into the nature of the Great Consciousness, into Reality, into the very Existence of Life itself.

Embark upon a journey with renowned scholar and beloved teacher Paul Muller-Ortega for a Sadhana Satsang where we will deepen our understanding of Tantric Sadhana and learn powerful, elegant, yet accessible practices for the revelation of the Light of Consciousness. Paul will guide students in the Release Practice, Japa (recitation of mantras), Meditation and other beautiful and potent techniques.

NLP Part 1: “Anchoring” Your State of Mind for Success

NLP Part 1: “Anchoring” Your State of Mind for Success

Sarah Jamieson / Thoughts / , , / 1 Comment

Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.  – Thomas Edison

Last week I started my first 2 day (of a 9 day course) in NLP (Neuro-linguistic programming) with Thought Models, a local company specializing in providing clients with the tools to positively change their world and bring about success.

NLP is what is called a “meta discipline;” which is the study of the structure of subjective experience and what can be calculated from those experiences. It is an approach using models of excellence, communication, personal development and some applications found in psychotherapy – but it is NOT therapy. The title refers to a stated connection between the neurological processes (“neuro”), the language we use to navigate our environment (“linguistic”), and the behavioral patterns which sums up the human condition. All of this plays an integral role that we learn through experience (“programming”) and can be organized to achieve specific goals in life. Or more simply put; Thought Models sums up NLP as such;

“Neuro: The Mind-Body: how we function; physiological and mental states and activities.

Linguistic: The language we use to describe, categorize, communicate about and make sense of our world; how we communicate our experience to others.

Programming: The stories we use to interpret experience; repeating sequences of behavior and patterns of thought that help us or hinder us; strategies that get us what we want.”

 

In NLP a person can learn to develop their skills at communicating more effectively and perhaps even learn a “technique” to broaden their own scope of process and perception within their own model of experience.  In Harry Nichols, most recent blog post about “modeling” he puts it quite simply as; “Modeling is a process used to discover and codify patterns of excellence as demonstrated consistently by top performers in any field.”

I would like to feature an application that has proven to be very effective in my own life and in my motivational seminars and public speaking engagements. It all has to do with setting an intention, building a vision and setting goals. It’s called learning to anchor, or anchoring.

Anchoring are those “triggers” or “buttons” that can decide the fate of our day. Those subconscious thought or emotions; which, can be positive or negative and will untimely determine the level of our success as we move through our day. Anchors can be very powerful and purposeful tools for managing our emotional states. Anchors are stimuli that call forth states of mind – thoughts and emotions. Anchors can be visual, auditory or kinesthetic. We are affected by anchors throughout our lives.

 

Pavlov’s Dog: The Birth Place of Anchoring

Remember Pavlov’s dog! In the 1950s a Russian scientist, named Ivan Pavlov researched the connection of the use of dogs, stimuli and the ringing of a bell.  Anchoring is reminiscent of Pavlov’s experiments with dogs. Pavlov sounded a bell as the animal was given food. The animals salivated when they saw the food. After some parings of the bell and the food, the bell alone elicited salivation. This stimulus and response, and later on he would call this research “Pattern Matching” or “Stimulus-Response.”  Pattern Matching is a primary brain process, which is used to make sense of the world, a learned response to experience, where we create positive or negative habits, as well as the place where we develop addictions or chronic conditions.

 

Pattern Matching:

Every time we have a new and significant experience, our subconscious – the brain, does a database search for a similar experience and then stores that new experience in the same category. This is called a neural network, where our brain filters and files away our daily sensory feedback into “implicit memory”. Pattern matching is directly linked to most of the phobias and panic related conditions that are so prevalent in today’s modern world. Take the spider for instance, one “panic mode” I know quite well. My earliest memories of a spider incident was seeing my father jump up on the couch and scream…”spider, damn he’s a biggin.” So naturally, I jump up on the couch at 7 years old and think…. “spider’s bad” and the feeling of “scared or fear” which also thinking back brings up the feeling of laughter and some of my funniest moments on weekends at my dads.

 

For example the dreaded spider:

  • See a spider = mass freak out
  • Read the word spider = mass freak out (my brain brings up the image)
  • Feeling something on the skin that could be a spider = mass freak out (my brain brings up that physical creepy crawly feeling).  = PHOBIA and PATTERN MATCHING.

Now, without pattern matching, learning would be literally impossible. Therefore, it’s not the pattern matching that is the issue here, it’s the meaning in which we place on that experience that needs to be “re-patterned.”  It may be difficult, but not impossible to “re wire” or “re pattern” some of these networks and depending on the vested connection with the experience, anchoring can help to either reduce the “phobia” if it’s a negative pattern or bring about a positive state by anchoring that experience to a direct result.

How do you Anchor?

First we need to define a “state.” In Tony Robbins Ted Talk, “Why We Do What We Do.” Robbins discusses the “invisible forces” that motivate everyone’s actions and simples says the 2 invisible forces that decide peoples destiny or success:

 

  1. state – in the moment
  2. state – long term.

Robbins then takes it further to then ask 3 questions once these states are more clear and they are;

  1. What am I going to focus on? (feeling/ past, present, future)
  2. What does it mean? (thought)
  3. What are you going to do? (Action)

If we can tap into the right emotion and state you can change behavior.  We start by giving a “state” a name – thus we give it meaning and we pattern match to a positive anchor.

Identify the emotional state you want to focus on and then write them down. Choose 3 states you know you will use in the very near future, and ensure that these states are clear of any negativity or uncertainty. They must be states that have served you a successful outcome. Choosing to feel powerful and enthusiastic is specific and something you can work towards using the NLP Anchoring technique.

 

The Steps to Anchoring

Select a desired state i.e. specifically how you want to feel. Recall a particular time in your life when you felt the desired state. Pick a powerful example.

Simple Tips:

  • Only anchor an intense state, one that evokes a strongly felt experience.
  • Pick an experience that is pure and not mixed with other feelings.
  • Use unique anchors so the state is accessed at will.
  • Timing is crucial, fire the anchors before the peak and release before the peak declines.

For example, in the class I chose 3 states that will serve me in starting a new position with Copeman Healthcare and Fit to Train Human Performance Systems and that state is “Focus.” I then chose a state that reflects my new relationship “trust’ a state that is the foundation of all relationships, even the one with our-selves. Then I chose “compassion,” a state to keep me balanced which is the grounding force of many of my decisions and how I visually represent myself to the world. These 3 states will serve me over the next few weeks as I build my practice in a new clinical space.

How to access an anchored state; requires four skills:

  • Access a powerful state
  • Recognize when to set the anchor
  • Anchor the state as specifically as possible
  • Fire the anchor when required

One final thought I would like to leave you with. Working in the health and sciences field, one of the largest obstacles I come up against is the age old “excuse cycle.’ We all make them and we are always establishing “anchors” as to why we cannot achieve something or fit it into our life. It’s the age old conundrum of the modern human condition. Tell me if these sound familiar:

  • I can’t afford it (money)
  • I’m too busy (time)
  • I don’t want to travel that far (time management)
  • I don’t have the experience (experience)
  • I don’t have the right contacts (contacts)
  • I don’t want to wake up early or stay later (time management)
  • It’s just to hard, I don’t have the energy (time)

These are all linguistic anchors we create every day that prevent us from achieving our goals, and they also place blame elsewhere by pointing the finger in another direction…away from where it should be pointed and that is towards the “me,” because quite simply the only thing preventing you from change – is yourself and your actions (or lack of).

Robbins speaks of “resources vs. resourcefulness,” where we continually blame a lack of resources, rather than turning that negative anchor into an opportunity for positive change. I won’t sugar coat this for you – the reason you can’t is because you won’t. Let’s turn that into you CAN and you WILL. Some of my favorite “excuses” or “anchors” that do not serve you in your path to success are:

 

Resources vs. Resourcefulness:

(I don’t have) Time >>>> (I do have) Creativity >>transition>> (24 hours in a day)

(I don’t have) Money >>> (I do have) Determination >>transition>> (budget 2 less Starbucks a day)

(I don’t have) Contacts >>> (I do have) Perseverance >>transition>> (network. make connections)

(I don’t have) Experience >>> (I do have) Passion >>transition>> (experience is a skill, passion is a trait)

 

For the next week, I would encourage you to observe yourself and others and start thinking about what anchors you have established in your life that may hold you back. Once you recognize these anchors, you can then start the process of detaching from these anchors and establishing new anchors and patterns to replace them, so that you can harness a state that will serve you better towards your goals.

Over the course of the next few months I will be featuring a review of each of our NLP training workshops. For more information on how to get involved in NLP please click on this link and contact master coach Harry Nichols with Thought Models!

 

Sources:

Nada Nidra: The Adventure of a Lifetime

Nada Nidra: The Adventure of a Lifetime

annejones / Events, Meditation, Reviews / , , , , , , , , , , , , , / 0 Comment

One rarely expects to go to a yoga class and not move at all. But during Yoga Nidra, that is almost exactly what happens.

One Yoga for the People hosted Nada Nidra: The Adventure of a Lifetime Friday night.

At first read, “The adventure of a lifetime” sounds a bit dramatic, but after experiencing Nada and Nidra yogic techniques, one really feels as though they have been on an internal adventure. Yoga Nidra is an empowering practice that guides you towards living in the moment. Heather Eschuk led the ancient Nidra practice, which was complimented by Mike Nichols’ chimes, crystal and Tibetan singing bowls.

The practice began with a beautiful sea of Oms. In a hot room full of so many voices, it was a lovely sound and a nice opportunity to explore the sound of your own Om without judgment. Before class began, Mike advised students that some people can find the sound of the bowls a bit intense; and that participants are welcome to cover their ears or lie on their side. He and Heather also mentioned that students are welcome to move during the Yoga Nidra if they feel the need, which was nice to know.

Mike began the class with a few Yin poses – Caterpillar, pigeon, a little self-jaw-massage, some supported bridge pose and gentle twists – to the sound of the bowls, which helped to bring the attention deep into the body. After this, Heather began to pilot us through the Yoga Nidra experience, which took about 50 minutes. Everybody spent most of the Yoga Nidra in a physical Savasana. Towards the end, as students became more awake and restless, we were encouraged to practice some gentle postures.

Towards the end of the practice, Heather summed up the experience of Yoga Nidra perfectly by calling it: “presence in your own innate wellbeing.”

Check out Heather’s website: www.heathereschuk.com. Mike teaches at Shine Yoga in Vancouver.

THE BIO MECHANICS OF DANCE: THE LUMBO-PELVIC HIP COMPLEX

THE BIO MECHANICS OF DANCE: THE LUMBO-PELVIC HIP COMPLEX

Sarah Jamieson / Thoughts / , / 1 Comment

““Dance is the hidden language of the soul”  ~ Martha Graham

 

The Stats:

85% of people will suffer lower back pain at some point in their life

5% become chronic and unremitting

70% of reoccurring symptoms and compensations

20% of LBP (low back pain) patients also have SI joint (synovial portion) as a pain generator

 

Truth be told, these stats are just for the basic population; many of whom play recreational sports on the weekends and many of whom rock the role of “Desk Jockey” as a professional study or in the corporate world. However, this post takes into account the above stats as well as sports specifics and in today’s post we focus on the sport of dance.

 

Introduction

With sport, comes a new gambit of neuromuscular training and adaptive skill sets that, if not implemented correctly or at the right times during the athletes training cycles can lead to breakdowns in the body, some of which; could result in long term discomfort.

Over the course of the last few years I have been compiling case studies on the consistent patterns I have been noticing in today’s population.  Clients who participate in the same sport, or have similar professions all exhibit similar movement breakdowns and somatic pain; yet they experience them very different (based on unique mechanics and their reflection of the world).

One specific group of clients I have noticed over the years who exhibit early onset of lumbo-pelvic dysfunctions and low back pain are dancers. Much of my work in this area has been observing the fundamentals of dance and the specialized movement patterns to deduce consistent patterns that can lead to breakdowns in dance.

For this post I have limited the information to Western Contemporary and Classical Ballet movements, however, it should be noted that many forms of dance can be applicable, such as; the Classical North Chinese dance of Niuyangge, as well as the Classical styles of Indian Dance; Bharatanatya, Odissi, Kathak and many others.  These fundamentally arranged groups include; alignment, plié, relevé, passé, degagé, développé, rond de jambe, grand battement, forward stepping patterns, elevation and break falls and other motor dance specific patterns.

For this post I would like to restrict my thoughts to Alignment as this gives a broader scope of how alignment directly relates to the common place “lumbo-pelvic dysfunction” and ‘back pain” featured in this article. It is where a coach should start observing the student and then start to breakdown each movement into specific mechanical sequences.

Alignment:

Although this word will have varying definitions to some researchers, clinicians etc, and the generalization of the word is pretty common place. Alignment is based on the arrangement of the body segments and skeletal structure in a vertical column with respect to the line of gravity.

The Pelvis:

A biomechanical research paper on dance by Donna Krasnow, MS, a professor and head of the Department of Dance atYorkUniversityproduced a study outlining early research in this field.

“One of the early research studies investigating alignment was a master’s thesis by Bannister (1977),3 which examined the interrelationships of pelvic angle, lumbar angle, hip mobility, and the correlation of alignment to low back pain. Participants were 8 male and 55 female university dance students. They were photographed from front and side views, next to a plumb line suspended from the ceiling. Measures of flexibility were taken for hip flexion and abduction in a seated position, and pain was assessed by questionnaire. Analysis consisted of t-tests and Pearson product moment coefficient of correlation.

Bannister concluded that the four variables (lumbar angle, pelvic angle, and flexibility in hip flexion and abduction) do not predict low back pain and that posture, flexibility, and pain are independent. (Biomechanical Research in Dance: A Literature Review, Conditioning with Imagery for Dancers, by Donna Krasnow, M.S, M. Virginia Wilmerding, Ph.D., Shane Stecyk, Ph.D., ATC, CSCS,MatthewWyon, Ph.D., Yiannis Koutedakis, Ph.D. – March 2011).

Instability of the pelvis can be noted in observing some of the more repetitive movements in classical ballet, such as; relevé (pre and post turn out with full execution), passé (unilateral balance and weight shift), degage (forward stepping, pre and post turn out), ronde de jambe (adduction at the hip joint and unilateral weight shift), as well as the bottom positioning in the plie. All of these movement patterns allow for observational analysis that directly relate to the fundamental movement strategies in dance and the lower limb mechanics and relationship connection from the hip to knee to ankle, as well as the reverse relationship of the pelvis to spine to shoulders and head positioning.

The Spine:

The spine and it’s segmental make up are key indicators to how the body loads and distributes weight efficiently in the body. For dancers the spine must be flexible and have Tensegrity to properly move and react. Spinal deviations in verticality, primarily in the upper spine, lower spine, and total spine are common, and these breakdowns in movement strategy and pelvic stability can be easily observed.  When there is a lack of mobility, or in the case of dancers; a lack of stability in the spine this energy will be re distributed to the pelvis of shoulders.

When we combine the alignment of the spine and the alignment of the pelvis we can then begin to observe some of the preliminary breakdowns that could be resulting in the somatic pain in the lower back that the dancer is “feeling” and exhibiting.

When there are mechanical breakdowns in hip stability, dances will normally feel referral into the spine.  There is an area of increased stress where the rigid thoracic spine joins the flexible lumbar spine, and a second area where the lumbar spine joins the rigid pelvis below. Both of these areas can have problems. Stability and Strength conditioning are key to ensuring this relationship is well balanced.  These dancers may need to work on their upper-body strength to help prevent this injury.

The majority of back problems come from the lowermost segment of the back—theLumbosacral spine. This area is put under extreme stress when performing grand battements, port de bras, arabesques, and attitudes and is prone to muscle strains, disc disease and stress fractures later on as the dancer/ client ages. To build on this; our fascial systems, plasy a significant role in the tension, compression and release within movement and in rest. In relation to the spine and LPHC the thoraco-lumbar fascia is the barer of energy load, re load and distribution. It is the epicenter from which all other lines intersect, cross over and move. In dance ensuring the fascial lines are balanced is also key. Our fascia and connections become stiffer, as this is a normal response to age and the protective barrier of our superficial and deep fascial lines.

 

Lumbo-Pelvic  Hip Complex (LPHC) and Dysfunction:

In the publication “Corrective Strategies  for Lumbo-Pelvic-Hip Impairments” by Canadian Sports NSCM introduces LPHC THE lumbo-pelvic-hip complex (LPHC) is a region of the body that has a  massive influence on the structures above and below it. The LPHC has between 29 and 35 muscles that attach to the lumbar spine or pelvis.  The LPHC is directly associated with both the lower extremities and upper  extremities of the body. Because of this, dysfunction of both the lower extremities and upper extremities can lead to dysfunction of the LPHC and vice versa. In the LPHC region specifi cally, the femur and the pelvis make up the iliofemoral joint and the pelvis and sacrum make up the sacroiliac joint. The lumbar spine and sacrum form the lumbosacral junction.

Collectively, these structures anchor many of the major myofascial tissues that have a functional impact on the arthrokinematics of the  structures above and below them.

Above the LPHC are the thoracic and cervical spine, rib cage, scapula,  humerus, and clavicle. These structures make up the thoracolumbar and cervicothoracic junctions of the spine, the scapulothoracic, glenohumeral, acromioclavicular (AC), and sternoclavicular (SC) joints

 

How LPHC dysfunction can relate to dancers?

Dancers with lumbopelvic/hip dysfunctions are incredibly challenging for sports injury professionals to diagnose and treat because there are so many working parts to observe.

Firstly, as movement coaches we no there is no such thing as “isolation,” Therefore; the lumbar spine, pelvis and hip should never be considered separately: a complex interplay exists between them, as we are integrated system. Subtle changes or inadequacies in one area will have a definite impact on the surrounding areas.

Secondly, after determining the “somatic pain” referral points, we then steer the client away from this focus. The key word here is “refer.’ The pain is merely where the energy is being blocked, but it is referred, not the point of origin. Focus less on identifying painful structures and more on the mechanical dysfunction, which requires a thorough understanding of the function and structure of the lumbopelvic hip complex. This applies to both the ‘normal’ function, as in, the client’s day to day movement AND the mechanically specific functions for dancers, which is considerably different in terms of range of movement and muscle control. We need to account for both of these ranges.

Under-active muscles vs. over-active muscles and how they interact with each other, plays a significant role in movement pattern execution and motor control efficiency. There are a number of muscles in the upper and lower extremities whose  function may be related and have an effect on the LPHC, all of which help to restore and maintain normal range of motion, stability and strength, as well as eliminate any muscle inhibition. Each dancer will exhibit his or her own specific mechanics in relation to what muscles/systems are over and under active.

 

How to prevent and or treat LPHC Dysfunction and somatic pain in dancers:

The key is a balance of mobility (functional mobility for your sport) and stability and strength, so that the joints and connective tissue can properly respond and react when loading and unloading the skeletal structure.  Overall conclusions can be observed as such:

(1) Somatic and neuromuscular training can be effective in improving alignment and retaining improvements. This includes strength and stability exercises patterned to the movement control.

(2) There is day-today alignment variability that needs to be taken into consideration

(3) Pelvic positioning and spinal alignment are key determinants and observing their relationship in execution of dance specific motor control and day to day motor control will allow the coach and client better understand the movement strategies needing to be applied ,

(4) Dancers use different strategies for differing conditions. Understanding the clients motivators and learning style are key to success
Sources:

  1. NSCM “Corrective Strategies  for Lumbo-Pelvic-Hip Impairments – http://www.nasm.org/uploadedFiles/1/CES_II/NASM_CES_LPHC.pdf
  2. “Biomechanical Research in Dance: A Literature Review”, by Donna Krasnow et al – http://www.citraining.com/Biomechanical-Research-in-Dance.html
  3. The National Ballet of Canada- http://national.ballet.ca/thecompany/about/
Free Yoga & Coconut Water at Bikram Yoga Vancouver!

Free Yoga & Coconut Water at Bikram Yoga Vancouver!

Taya / Deals, Events, Studios / , , , , , , , , / 0 Comment

Bikram Yoga Vancouver is celebrating its first anniversary this Saturday (September 29) and is holding a big birthday bash to celebrate the occasion. It’s been a year since the opening of their Cambie street location at City Square Mall, so they are offering FREE yoga classes all day for anyone and everyone. If you didn’t think that was great enough, Cocos Pure is also giving away FREE coconut water, and Zenzation is holding draws for free yoga mats and hot yoga towels! Serious discounts on retail and yoga packages will also be made available for anyone looking for a great deal. See you there!

Where: Unit #22-555 West 12th Avenue, City Square Mall, Vancouver | Phone: 604-568-068 | www.bikramyogavancouver.com

When: Saturday, September 29th

Who: Everyone!

Yoga & Vogue-ing with Madonna

Yoga & Vogue-ing with Madonna

annejones / Events, Reviews / , , , , , , , , / 0 Comment

Madonna is coming to town September 29 and on Friday night, she was honoured by a special yoga practice led by Amy Holt in Langley.

Amy’s Yoga Vogue to Madonna was a 90-minute yoga practice in tribute to the musical powerhouse and style icon. The class consisted of 30 minutes of flow, 30 minutes of fun partner work and 30 minutes of more restorative and Yin-inspired poses, all to the soundtrack of Madge, including songs like Material Girl and Vogue.

The first third of the class included some sexy flow sequences, groin openers, and hip thrusting that made you feel as though you were in a music video. In the middle of the class, we got into partners and did funky paired-up poses including Balasana and Upavista Konasana with one partner draped over the other’s back (gentle thigh massages optional), and a delicious Thai Yoga back massage exercise.

Double Down Dog

Amy Holt and Desiree Cabalfin demonstrating Double Downward Facing Dog Friday, September 21 at Yoga Vogue to Madonna at Hari Om Yoga in Langley.

The beautiful Amy wore a black, sequined mini-dress and purple tights. Colourful photographs of Madonna taken throughout the decades were sprinkled around the upstairs studio at Hari Om Yoga Langley, where the special Friday-night class took place. It was a full house – mostly women, but a couple of male Madge-lovers, too. Several of the participants were ticketholders for Madonna’s Vancouver show.

And as if there weren’t enough spice during the practice, there were sultry treats waiting outside after class: candy kisses and spicy dark chocolate.

The event was one of Hari Om Yoga’s $10 Friday-night events, which they schedule almost weekly throughout the Fall.

September 21: International Day of Peace, Let’s Keep it Going!

September 21: International Day of Peace, Let’s Keep it Going!

Sarah Jamieson / Thoughts / , , / 0 Comment

Celebtating the weekend of International Peace. Friday marked the day of international peace. Around the world on September 21 nations and people of all walks of life, lay down thier arms for one day in solidarity. Each year the  International Day of Peace is observed around the world on 21 September. The  General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals  of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.

Sustainable Peace…

This year, world  leaders, together with civil society, local authorities and the private sector,  met in Rio de Janeiro,   Brazil for the  United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development to renew political  commitment to long term sustainable development.

It is in the  context of the Rio+20 Conference that  “Sustainable Peace for a Sustainable Future” is the theme chosen for this  year’s observance of the International day of Peace.

There can be no sustainable  future without a sustainable peace. Sustainable peace must be built on  sustainable development.

The International Day of Peace offers people globally a shared date to  think about how, individually, they can contribute to ensuring that natural  resources are managed in a sustainable manner, thus reducing  potential for disputes, and paving the road  to a sustainable future, the “Future We Want”.

I wanted to share with you a few of my favorite TED Talks that focus on sustainable change and peace.

 

Jeremy Gilley: One Day of Peace

“Here’s a crazy idea: Persuade the world to try living in peace for just one day, every September 21. In this energetic, honest talk, Jeremy Gilley tells the story of how this crazy idea became real — real enough to help millions of kids in war-torn regions.

Filmmaker Jeremy Gilley founded Peace One Day to create an annual day without conflict. And … it’s happening. What will you do to make peace on September 21?”

Video: http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/en/jeremy_gilley_one_day_of_peace.html

 

Seth Godin: The Tribes We Lead

Seth Godin argues the Internet has ended mass marketing and revived a human social unit from the distant past: tribes. Founded on shared ideas and values, tribes give ordinary people the power to lead and make big change. He urges us to do so.

Seth Godin is an entrepreneur and blogger who thinks about the marketing of ideas in the digital age. His newest interest: the tribes we lead

Video: http://www.ted.com/talks/seth_godin_on_the_tribes_we_lead.html

 

Jacqueline Norvogratz: Inspiring a Life of Immersion

“We each want to live a life of purpose, but where to start? In this luminous, wide-ranging talk, Jacqueline Novogratz introduces us to people she’s met in her work in “patient capital” — people who have immersed themselves in a cause, a community, a passion for justice. These human stories carry powerful moments of inspiration. (Recorded at TEDWomen, December 2010, in Washington, DC. Duration: 17:46”

Video: http://www.ted.com/talks/view/lang/en//id/1076

 

 

Sources:

For more info please follow this link: http://www.un.org/en/events/peaceday/

WAITERS, TAKERS AND EARNERS

WAITERS, TAKERS AND EARNERS

Sarah Jamieson / Thoughts / , , / 0 Comment

“Thought precedes physical form and that “the action of Mind plants that nucleus which, if allowed to grow undisturbed, will eventually attract to itself all the conditions necessary for its manifestation in outward visible form.” ~ Thomas Troward

Siddhārtha Gautama Buddha was the first true guru of modern day positive thinking. Modern day being 483 BCE, yet his teachings on “what you think, you become,” has been passed down for centuries in the teachings of Buddhism, as well as adopted by those who choose to practice another (or sometimes no) religion. This post isn’t about the teachings of Buddha, but it is about the ideology of behind his most quoted phrase and the importance of the “self” in success.

There are 3 kinds of people in this world;

  • those who wait for success to come to them
  • those who take success
  • and those who earn the right to achieve success

This is the conundrum of our overly processed, socioeconomic age.

THE WAITERS:

The quote “All good things come to those who wait,” is usually misinterpreted to mean “do nothing,” and those who wait usually lack the understanding behind what it means to truly succeed. Why? Simply, because they were not part of the process and without being part of that evolution of that success and connection to it there comes a lack of understanding, lack of value and personal responsibility. The word “entitlement” comes to mind. In the 60 Minutes segment titled “Generation Y: Entitlement Generation” we can see the socioeconomic archetype at play; where more and more young adults are coming out of University sheltered an d expectant of high salary and work right away. When in actuality we have a higher percentage of youth unemployment than ever before.

In the 1997 book The Fourth Turning by William Strauss and Neil Howe, the authors outline Generation Y as “Millennial’s” who belong to the Hero category, featuring a deep trust in authority and institutions; being somewhat conventional, but still powerful. Meaning they grew up during an Unraveling cycle with more protections than the previous generation (Gen X) due to a world fraught with chaos and disorder. Yet, with this security there is a lack of understanding that value and position are not just a given.

Nonetheless, no matter what generation or socioeconomic re positioning that takes place, universal abundance and law of attraction will always state “like attracts like,” and those who do nothing or play the waiting game of expectation, will likely achieve just that – more waiting.

THE TAKERS:

Those who take success usually do so at the heart of “ego” and at the plight or fall of another. Instead of seeing the glory in the process; and the understanding that none of us can truly succeed on our own, we must connect with others to succeed – they are blinded by the idea that they are owed success. The ego is the part of the human psyche that controls the “me,me, me” syndrome of the brain. The ego constantly strives to be always right, always superior, never wrong and never inferior. The ego is at the center of our psyche that will always manifest recurring pain (past experiences we have not yet let go of), self doubt & powerlessness and manifest a visceral response of anger, judgement and negativity. The taker has a constant need to pull away from interdependence with (and of) the world to the tune of just one (him or herself) and constantly demands to be satisfied and satiated usually through power, negative thought, judgement, criticism and by dis-empowering others along the way.

In the book the “Power of Now,” Eckhart Tolle says the ego is; “a mental image of who you are, based on our personal and cultural conditioning.” Those who take do not fully understand that your ego, can also be your ally. It can act as a catalyst and a constant reminder for when life presents a radical change in thought and action. When there must be a transformation in human consciousness.

 

THE EARNERS:

The Law of Attraction can be dated back to the early 1900’s. Napoleon Hill’s greatest quote (in my personal opinion) was fundamental in this area of R&D; “Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve. Every adversity, every failure, every heartache carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit.”

Those who earn success have a deep driving force because the evolutionary process has been embedded in the very fabric of their soul. They live and breathe the goal and if they bump up against adversity and failure; it is merely a stepping stone to a learned response towards a higher form of greatness. Why? Simply, because they are living their potential, they are free from the over use of the ego. Keeping in mind “ego” and “self-confidence,” are distinctly different. They understand the value of the journey, not just simply the destination and hard work is part of this process. Historically, anything worth achieving in the world has come with hard work, dedication to a goal, connection with others and respecting the responsibility that comes with obtaining that goal. When you earn success, it’s much more meaningful.

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY = OWN IT.

The reality is that at some time in our lives, we have dabbled in all 3. Through cognitive development as children and youth we explore the waiter, the taker and the earner; as this is a natural state of learning, processing and evolving. As we age and become more aware of life outside of our 3 block radius and we come to terms with the exchange of work and value (or at least we hope). As adults, we understand that work leads directly to success and that the longevity of this success is in direct proportion to the hard work, dedication and passion put forth, on-going, to maintain the caliber of the result. The BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) is to never lose sight of 3 things along the journey and after success;

1) Practice your personal responsibility – Success is not just earned, the act of achievement is repeated over and over again to maintain balance. To keep you, you must practice greatness.

2) Pass on your knowledge – influence and motivate others to understand the value and the process of achievement. History repeats itself, but we have the power to honor the path of choice.

3) Check your ego at the door – your ego is your internal “emotional intelligence” temperature gauge. It can be your ally but do not let it overpower your judgment, your logical rationale, or your connection to others.

MANTRA

Most of my personal success has come from hard work, dedication and never losing sight of all the opportunities that have been offered to me. We do not get there alone. We may put forth grueling hours in the gym, on the track, in the office, in the school etc ~ but nothing is ever achieved alone because success is an exchange and if you are lucky if you repeat this exchange enough times, it will become habit and that, my friends, leads to integrity in mind, body and soul.

Happy Earning!

Just Yoga Vancouver – Mount Pleasant Studio

Just Yoga Vancouver – Mount Pleasant Studio

Taya / Studios / , , , , / 0 Comment

A new Mount Pleasant yoga studio opened a few months ago with a practical philosophy to yoga & wellbeing:

Just Yoga aims to provide a safe, friendly, down-to earth approach to all things holistic and soulfully wonderful. We believe in re-connecting Vancouver, on and off the mat, we believe in having a low environmental footprint, and we believe in making yoga truly accessible to everyone, which means keeping class prices as low as possible and offering discounts to those who need it. We honour our teachers and those who have taught before us, our members and everyone in our community, and uphold respect for all living beings as equals.

The studio itself was designed, renovated, and is run by Jeni Bond, with the help of a wonderful band of teachers with healing backgrounds. Jeni believes in the power of yoga to heal, through connection with yourself, with others and the Earth. She set up Just Yoga to share the tools, techniques and lessons that have helped her along the way.

“If it wasn’t for yoga I’m not sure where I’d be, I need that balance. When you feel lost, disconnected, lonely, sick or depressed, reach out for something that will elevate your spirit – yoga is one way to do that.”

Healing is the main goal, on all levels. Teaching people to listen to themselves, to delve deeply into their lives and find courage to heal and re-connect with others. Teachers learn people’s names and encourage them to talk to each other, deepening their connections. This is yoga with heart & soul.

For more information about Just Yoga Vancouver, visit their website www.justyoga.ca and connect with them on Twitter @JustYogaVan and Facebook.

Just Yoga
53 East Broadway (@ Quebec Street)
Tel: 604 709 9642 (YOGA)

Help Wanted: Want to write for us?

Help Wanted: Want to write for us?

Taya / Writers / , , / 0 Comment

We’re hoping that if you’re reading this it’s because you love all things YOGA! You consider yourself a ‘yogi’ and enjoy practicing yoga on a regular basis. We love doing yoga in Vancouver as much as you do and we’re currently looking to find people to write for us. We need help reviewing things you attend such as yoga studios, conferences, products, clothing and anything else related to yoga! If you want to join us, here’s what we’re looking for in new writers:

– Knowledgeable and passionate about yoga, fitness, health and wellness.
– Would like to share your yoga experiences through writing. Do you think you have what it takes?
– Your writing doesn’t have to be award winning, but you should be able to write well. We don’t have enough editors to correct basic grammar and spelling so your writing should be polished.
– Are able to contribute regularly, such as 1 article per week?

The above is a summary of what we’re looking for in new contributors. Writers here are not paid. Your reward, we hope, is that you’ll get to write about your love of yoga, health and wellness, share your experiences doing yoga in Vancouver, and to be apart of and connect with the Vancouver Yoga community. If you have your own blog, feel free to post links to it in your posts. We’d love to help promote you as well! Our authors have been featured in such print publications as the Georgia Straight and have been quoted multiple times in Groupon for millions to see.

If you think you have what it takes, please contact us at info@vancouveryogareview.com. Tell us about yourself, why you think you’re suited for our site. Looking forward to hearing from you!

Alternative to Big Box Yoga Studios Opens in Mount Pleasant

Alternative to Big Box Yoga Studios Opens in Mount Pleasant

Taya / Events, Studios / , , , , , , / 0 Comment

Vancouver, BC –Good karma is headed to Mount Pleasant with the opening of Yogācāra’s third boutique yoga studio, and first franchise, on September 15. Unlike big-box yoga centers, this community-centered studio focuses on small class sizes and personal attention from yoga teachers in order to help practitioners achieve true mind, body, and soul balance. Yogācāra offers a variety of classical yoga styles including Hatha, Yin, Restorative, Vinyasa, Kundalini, Yoga Nidra and Pilates.

“We are so excited to open our newest location here in Mount Pleasant,” says Camellia Rumball, studio owner of Yogācāra Mount Pleasant. “We provide a wellness-based approach to practicing yoga that encourages all people to incorporate yoga into their lives. At Yogācāra, we have something for everyone and we are looking forward to connecting with both lifelong practitioners and new yogis in the community.”

Yogācāra’s classes are deliberately small (limit of 14 students per class) and intimate, enabling teachers to provide more care and attention to each student. The warm setting, combined with after class tea and snacks creates an attractive and much needed sense of community.

As part of its Grow Yoga, Build Community vision, Yogācāra is deeply committed to making yoga accessible to everyone while also supporting social causes. The company offers a Karma Yoga Program, which allows students to attend yoga classes simply by making a donation of a canned good. Yogācāra donates $3 for every student who attends the class to a local charity.

Yogācāra already has two popular studios located in Kitsilano (read our review here) and Riley Park, and plans to continue expanding to grow yoga and build community throughout the Metro Vancouver.

For more information on Yogācāra, visit www.yogacarastudios.com, connect with them on Facebook, or follow them on Twitter.

Thanks to www.jivecommunications.ca

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...
« 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 »