Videos to Improve Balance and Strength

In my last post, Witnessing Change as it Happens,  I touched upon confidence when doing Zumba and other forms of exercise. I have started to take the plunge (hopefully not a face plant!) by practicing arm balances. I remember the first arm balance I ever saw was on the cover of Yoga Journal magazine. It seemed like the most impossible thing I had ever seen. In the magazine, there was this article about arm balances made easy. I was completely mesmerized by the beautiful woman, photographed by Katrine Naleid, who seemed to effortlessly fly into the air. The article talked about relaxing! into the pose. I could only shake my head in awe.

Years later, I am finally able to look at different asanas and see them for what they are. What has changed is my mind, my body yes, but first and foremost, it has definitely been my mind. So today, I really started to try the crow pose. I found it embedded in this video featuring Kathryn Budig. I was amazed at the detailed and slow pace that she instructed her model to move within each posture. It was breathtakingly beautiful. So after really paying close attention to body positioning and precision, I actually floated up into the crow pose! WAAAAAHHHH! OK, so as not to mislead anyone--I held it for a 1/2 second. BUT, it's a start. And true to what Yoga Journal said, it really is all about relaxation. Once I let go, I floated up, but then my lovely ego took over, and I had to sit back. So I am so glad that this pose isn't as daunting as I had initially thought!

This is another great yoga sequence, featuring  Kino MacGregor, in which she teaches us how to build strength to hold arm balances. I had briefly seen videos featuring Kino before, but never really took the time to WATCH! She is a very graceful yogini who has so much knowledge that I can't wait to learn more from. I hope you get a chance to look at these videos. They are really impressive! Namaste.

Witnessing Change as it Happens

It has been two months since I attended my first Zumba class, and I have to say that I noticed today that I did not need to drink as much water during the class as I normally do--I had water left over! I also noticed that my steps to the dance moves became a bit more refined, my muscles a little stronger, and my confidence growing. Each class has been an exercise in pushing my limits. The first few classes I left huffing and puffing thinking, How is this body of 40+ years going to ever get this right? But amazingly (or maybe not so amazingly), I feel myself growing stronger, shining brighter than before.

A friend of mine who comes with me every week made a comment this morning. "How's your pain since you've been gluten free?" And you know what?! I hadn't thought about it all morning! That is a huge change that I missed because you see, my pain wasn't wrecking havoc on my nerves, joints, and muscles! So I didn't draw my attention to it.

Now as I sit here scanning my body, I notice where the pain normally hits, and the areas seem to be tamped down at the moment. Is it the gluten, is it the barometric pressure, is it that my husband, Jeff Whelan, got  wonderful reviews on Amazon for his book Space Orville? Honestly, I really don't care, but I'm glad that I have a good day that will turn into good days or weeks.

And today we will be celebrating our 16th anniversary with my parents. My beautiful boys are excited because Grammy and Papa are treating them to carnival rides all afternoon--as well as treating all of us to pizza afterwards. I am so glad...today is a GOOD day! Namaste.

Zumba Shoes

OK, what's all the fuss? I'm in my zumba class and I see lots of people wearing these Zumba Shoes . Are they any better than just plain old sneakers? Does anyone reading this blog have an answer?

I have a pair of Nike Air shoes. I like them because they give me the support I need (I also wear orthodics due to my insanely high arches). BTW, these were a b-day gift from my parents--I would never buy such expensive shoes (except Birks, that is!)

There are a couple of moves which are difficult at best (these young whippersnappers that can move like the wind--sheesh!) where my shoes squeak as I move across the floor, and I can't help but wonder if these shoes prevent that? The only thing I can figure out is that they seem to have a thin sole and the Zumba logo on the side.

I'm not one to part with my money easily. If I could wear my Papillio Sandals to Zumba class I would. My feet only work in Birks!

OK, enough of my rambling...I just wondered if this was just a fashion craze. I leave Zumba class sweaty, my heart pounding, and I feel my endorphins having a hay-day in my body. So do I really need to look like a Zumba Goddess? (My guess is no!)

Have a great weekend! Namaste to all!

My First Zumba Class

This morning I took a Zumba class. What fun it was! The class featured Latin music with a flair! I know it will take me a few times to get the routines down--not sure my hips can do all the wiggling that's required. I'm sure to find my stride after a couple of sessions.

After the class I spoke with the instructor about becoming a Zumba teacher. I was surprised that it only takes an 8-hour class to become certified to teach it. Something to look into if I find my groove.

I also liked that people (me included) adapted the moves to fit the individual. I kept my feet close to the ground (no jumping for me and my weak bladder--sheesh!), but maybe in time I can add a little bounce to my step. Any Zumba teachers out there? What do you think of the program? Just curious, here!