So the yoga is going well. I have gotten in four classes in five days, with one day off yeasterday so I could do a day trip to Bethlehem and to give my body a break at the same time. The studio here offers some interesting classes, of which I have taken every opportunity to try out. I figure that I am here so might as well.
The candle light only class was very interesting. The class is at night and there is some light that comes in through the windows, but basically the room is lit only with candles – and it’s tough as hell! Since you don’t have any visual cues, balance goes right out the window! Also, the mind tends to wander off a lot more than in a regular class. Again, not having visual cues sets the condition for the brain to wander off, sort of like Nixon rambling around on the beach in San Clemente after he resigned. I digress.
The other cool class, also my favorite, was the silent class. The instructor does all the postures with the class and the only things she says are “start” or “change” or similar. It is really great for focus and discipline as well as harmony in the room as everyone gets into synchronization to keep the timing for each pose just right.
Of the two other classes, I have done one in Hebrew and one in English (tonight’s class). The Hebrew class was just like when I was in Budapest and attending Hungarian classes. Most Bikram instructors have done their training in English so are always able to offer corrections and encouragement in English when needed. The English class I had tonight was really good, both since my body is starting to respond as well as the style of the instructor. She had just the right mixture of encouragement, information and direction.
I should be able to get in one more normal class before my seven day pass is up. As well, I am going to book a private lesson … I am excited and nervous about this. I’m nervous cause I don’t want to look like a buffoon to the instructor, but that is just my “wanting to look good” instinct kicking in, which I can safely ignore. I am excited since it will be a real boost to my practice.
